Cloisters La Compañía
A 17th-century Jesuit complex in Arequipa, featuring stunning Baroque architecture crafted from white sillar stone, now housing shops and cafes.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Enjoy pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
Cloisters La Compañía
Best Time
Enjoy pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 17th-century Jesuit complex in Arequipa, featuring stunning Baroque architecture crafted from white sillar stone, now housing shops and cafes.
"A historic and architectural gem offering a glimpse into the rich colonial past of the region."
📸 Capture the Details
Don't miss the intricate stone carvings and the beautiful sillar stone architecture. :camerawithflash:
🚶♂️ Quick Exploration
Allow about 15-30 minutes to walk through the cloisters and admire the surroundings. :walking:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Baroque Architecture
Marvel at the intricate stone carvings and ornate facades of this 17th-century Jesuit masterpiece.
Sillar Stone Beauty
Admire the elegant, distinctive appearance of the cloisters, built with Arequipa's iconic white volcanic stone.
Vibrant Marketplace
Explore charming shops and cafes nestled within the historic courtyard, offering local crafts and treats.
La Compañía Church
Visit the breathtaking adjacent church, a treasure trove of art and sculptures, free to enter.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Colonial Charm
Free Entry, Rich Experience
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Capture the Details
Don't miss the intricate stone carvings and the beautiful sillar stone architecture. :camerawithflash:
🚶♂️ Quick Exploration
Allow about 15-30 minutes to walk through the cloisters and admire the surroundings. :walking:
🛍️ Shop for Alpaca Goods
Find some of the better alpaca clothing shops here. :shopping_bags:
☕ Relax at a Cafe
Enjoy a coffee or snack in one of the charming cafes within the cloisters. :coffee:
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Capture the Details
Don't miss the intricate stone carvings and the beautiful sillar stone architecture. :camerawithflash:
🚶♂️ Quick Exploration
Allow about 15-30 minutes to walk through the cloisters and admire the surroundings. :walking:
🛍️ Shop for Alpaca Goods
Find some of the better alpaca clothing shops here. :shopping_bags:
☕ Relax at a Cafe
Enjoy a coffee or snack in one of the charming cafes within the cloisters. :coffee:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Claustros de la Compañía for its stunning Baroque architecture, particularly the intricate details carved from white sillar stone. Many highlight the beauty of the courtyard and the adjacent church, noting that it's a free and accessible historical gem. While some mention it's a relatively small area, most agree it's a must-see for its architectural significance and charming shops.
"A unique and beautiful architecture in the center of Arequipa with a lot of small stores and things to see. 100% recommend to walk around the area here."
Theo Maylen
"Most beautiful architecture… the place is just simple stunning. The church is just breath taken full of arts snd sculptures…. Is free to enter your the yard and the church but you can pay for a tour if you wish. I advise to come here and spend time admiring the architecture. If you are religious this is the place."
Ljubica Banic
"This beautiful and historical yard is free to visit from the streets. You will also find restaurants and coffee shops in the yard. It is not a huge area, you can walk through it end to end within about five minutes. It will also help if you get some guides to explain when and how it was built, then visit the church near by."
Tim Chu
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Claustros de la Compañía is centrally located in Arequipa, near the Plaza de Armas. It's easily accessible on foot from the main square. If arriving by taxi or bus, simply ask to be dropped off near the Plaza de Armas or the church itself.
Yes, it's very easy to find. It's a prominent historical site situated right in the heart of Arequipa's city center, adjacent to the La Compañía Church.
Absolutely! The walk from the Plaza de Armas to the Claustros de la Compañía is very short and pleasant, taking only a few minutes.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The main courtyard and the exterior of the La Compañía Church are free to enter and explore. You can wander through the shops and admire the architecture without any charge.
No, the church itself is generally free to enter, allowing visitors to admire its stunning interior art and sculptures.
While the main courtyard is free to explore, you can opt for a paid tour to gain deeper insights into the history and construction of the cloisters and the church.
The shops and cafes within the cloisters typically follow standard business hours, usually opening in the morning and closing in the early evening. The church's hours may vary slightly.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Most visitors find that 15 to 30 minutes is sufficient to walk through the cloisters, admire the architecture, and browse the shops.
You can admire the beautiful Baroque architecture, explore the shops selling local crafts (especially alpaca goods), enjoy a coffee at a cafe, and visit the impressive La Compañía Church.
Yes, the cloisters offer many picturesque spots, especially the fountain in the courtyard and the intricate architectural details. The sillar stone provides a beautiful backdrop.
Sillar is a white volcanic stone quarried locally in Arequipa. Its distinctive color and workability allowed for the creation of the elaborate Baroque facades seen in the city's historic buildings, including the Claustros de la Compañía.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the cloisters house several charming cafes and small restaurants where you can enjoy a coffee, snack, or a light meal.
You'll typically find local Peruvian snacks, pastries, coffee, and other beverages. It's a great spot for a brief refreshment break.
📸 📸 Photography
The central fountain in the courtyard is a popular spot. Also, focus on the intricate carvings of the sillar stone facades and the arches of the cloisters for stunning shots.
Photography rules can vary, but generally, it's permitted in the church, though flash photography might be restricted to protect the artwork. It's always best to check for signage or ask a church attendant.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
🛍️ Shoppers & Souvenir Hunters
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into Jesuit History
Today, the cloisters have been transformed into a vibrant hub, housing a collection of small shops and cafes. This adaptive reuse allows visitors to experience the historical architecture while also engaging with local commerce. The juxtaposition of ancient stone walls with bustling modern life creates a unique atmosphere. Many visitors are struck by the beauty of the courtyard, often featuring a central fountain, and the intricate details of the stonework that have withstood centuries.
While the cloisters offer a peaceful respite, the adjacent La Compañía Church is an absolute must-see. Its interior is a breathtaking display of religious art, filled with ornate altars, sculptures, and paintings. The sheer opulence and craftsmanship within the church are awe-inspiring, making it a significant cultural and religious landmark in Arequipa. The combination of the serene cloisters and the magnificent church provides a comprehensive historical and artistic experience.
The Allure of Sillar Stone
When you visit the cloisters, take a moment to appreciate the craftsmanship involved in carving and shaping the sillar. The stone's natural luminosity is particularly striking, especially under the bright Arequipa sun. This characteristic gives the entire complex a radiant appearance, making it a photographer's delight. The way the light plays off the carved surfaces creates a dynamic visual experience, highlighting the depth and detail of the Baroque ornamentation.
Beyond the Claustros, you'll find sillar used extensively throughout Arequipa's historic center, including in many other churches, mansions, and public buildings. Understanding the role of sillar is key to appreciating the unique architectural identity of Arequipa and its rich colonial heritage. It's a material that truly defines the visual landscape of the city.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit