Goyeneche Palace (Casa Goyeneche)
A stunning 19th-century Baroque mansion in Arequipa, now the Central Bank, showcasing exquisite sillar stone architecture and historical grandeur.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better for tours
Goyeneche Palace (Casa Goyeneche)
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better for tours
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning 19th-century Baroque mansion in Arequipa, now the Central Bank, showcasing exquisite sillar stone architecture and historical grandeur.
"A beautiful colonial house, though access is now limited as it serves as the Central Bank."
Check Opening Hours
Access can be limited as it's part of the Central Bank. Confirm tour times beforehand!
Guided Tours Recommended
Learn about the history and architecture from knowledgeable guides.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Baroque Facade
Admire the stunning white sillar stone facade, a hallmark of Arequipa's colonial architecture, featuring intricate details and wrought-iron balconies.
Central Courtyard
Step into the serene courtyard, often featuring a beautiful fountain, surrounded by rooms that showcase the mansion's historical grandeur.
Colonial Interiors
Explore rooms with original oak doors and windows, adorned with beautiful wrought-iron bars, offering a glimpse into the past.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Access & Current Status
Architectural Gem
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Opening Hours
Access can be limited as it's part of the Central Bank. Confirm tour times beforehand!
Guided Tours Recommended
Learn about the history and architecture from knowledgeable guides.
Photography Allowed?
Inquire about photography rules inside; some areas might have restrictions.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be exploring historical grounds, so comfortable footwear is key.
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Opening Hours
Access can be limited as it's part of the Central Bank. Confirm tour times beforehand!
Guided Tours Recommended
Learn about the history and architecture from knowledgeable guides.
Photography Allowed?
Inquire about photography rules inside; some areas might have restrictions.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be exploring historical grounds, so comfortable footwear is key.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors often praise the Goyeneche Palace for its beautiful colonial architecture and well-preserved Baroque features, noting its significance as a historical residence. However, many express disappointment that public access is now very limited due to its function as the Central Bank of Peru, making it difficult to experience the interior.
"Nice well done little museum"
Sean R
"This is no longer open to the public because it is part of the central bank of Peru."
Grace Heinerikson
"Built in the 19th century.
The Goiancha family, of Basque-Spanish origin.
This is one of the most beautiful colonial houses in the city, built of the white volcanic stone (silar) typical of Arequipa.
The building displays distinct Baroque architecture, with interior courtyards, wrought iron balconies and decorated arches.
It served as the family's private residence, and over the years it passed into the ownership of the Banco Central de Reserva del Perú (Central Bank of Peru), which still owns it today."
Gili Levy
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Goyeneche Palace is located in the historic center of Arequipa. You can easily reach it by taxi or a short walk from the main Plaza de Armas. Many guided tours of Arequipa include a stop here.
Yes, local buses and colectivos (shared taxis) frequent the area around the historic center, making it accessible via public transport. However, walking from the Plaza de Armas is often the most convenient.
Approaching from the Plaza de Armas, you can enjoy a scenic walk through Arequipa's charming streets, passing other historical buildings before reaching the palace.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
As the Goyeneche Palace now houses the Central Bank of Peru, public access is often limited. Guided tours may require booking in advance or have specific entry requirements. It's best to check with the Central Bank or local tour operators.
Opening hours can vary as it's a functional bank building. Historically, it was open to the public, but current access is often restricted to guided tours. It's crucial to verify current hours before visiting.
Typically, direct public access without a guided tour is not available due to its function as the Central Bank. Tours offer the best opportunity to see the interior.
While specific entry fees for general public access might not apply due to its current use, tours may have associated costs. It's advisable to confirm pricing with tour providers.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
Inside, you can admire the well-preserved Baroque architecture, including interior courtyards, oak doors, wrought-iron balconies, and decorated arches. Some areas may house exhibits related to the Goyeneche family or numismatics.
The palace's architecture is very photogenic. While interior photography might have restrictions, the exterior and courtyard offer great photo opportunities.
A guided tour usually lasts about 1-2 hours, allowing ample time to appreciate the architecture and learn about its history.
Historically, the palace has housed numismatic museums and rooms showcasing the Goyeneche House's past. Check current exhibits when planning your visit.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
No, as it is the Central Bank of Peru, there are no dining facilities within the palace itself. However, numerous restaurants and cafes are located nearby in the historic center.
Near the palace, you can find traditional Arequipeñan dishes like Rocoto Relleno, Adobo Arequipeño, and the famous Queso Helado.
📸 📸 Photography
The ornate facade, the central courtyard with its fountain, and the intricate wrought-iron balconies are prime photo spots. The surrounding streets also offer charming colonial backdrops.
Drone photography is generally restricted in urban historic centers and around government buildings. It's best to avoid using drones to prevent issues.
Morning light can be beautiful for the facade, while late afternoon offers softer light. Consider the angle of the sun to capture the white sillar stone's texture.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider combining a visit to the palace's exterior with a walk through the historic center, pointing out other interesting buildings and the unique sillar stone construction. The stories of colonial life can spark imagination, making history come alive for younger visitors.
🏛️ Architecture Enthusiasts
Even if interior access is limited, the exterior facade and the surrounding streets offer ample opportunities to study and photograph the intricate details. The palace's historical significance as a former residence of a prominent family adds another layer of appreciation for its architectural context.
📸 Photographers
Explore the surrounding streets for complementary colonial vistas. While interior photography might be restricted, the exterior and accessible courtyard areas are perfect for showcasing the beauty of Arequipa's historic buildings. Remember to check any specific photography guidelines if you manage to join a tour.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into Colonial Grandeur
Today, the palace serves as the headquarters for the Central Bank of Peru (BCRP) in Arequipa. This transition means that public access is often limited, typically available through guided tours or special events. Visitors who manage to enter can explore rooms that have been remarkably preserved, offering a tangible connection to the past. The palace's history is intertwined with figures like Monsignor Jose Sebastian Goyeneche y Barreda, who was the Bishop of Arequipa and a benefactor of the hospital that bears his name, further cementing the family's legacy in the city.
While its primary function is now institutional, the Goyeneche Palace remains a significant landmark for its architectural merit and historical importance. It stands as a testament to the wealth and artistic sensibilities of Arequipa's colonial era. For those interested in history, architecture, or the economic heritage of Peru, a visit, even if limited to its exterior or a scheduled tour, is highly recommended.
The Goyeneche Hospital Connection
Interestingly, the Goyeneche Hospital has also been the subject of local folklore and paranormal tales, with some TikTok videos referencing legends of a nurse's spirit.
Understanding this dual legacy – the opulent residence and the philanthropic healthcare institution – provides a more complete picture of the Goyeneche family's impact on Arequipa's history and its people.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit