Passage of the Cathedral

The Cathedral Passage in Arequipa is a beautiful pedestrian alley located in the historic center of the city, next to the imposing Cathedral Basilica of Arequipa. This passage connects the Plaza de Armas with San Francisco Street and is known for its architectural charm and the privileged view it offers of the side facade of the cathedral and the three volcanoes that surround the city: Misti, Chachani and Pichu Pichu. It is an ideal place to walk, take pictures and enjoy the historical and cultural atmosphere of Arequipa.

Location

The Cathedral Passage is located right next to the Arequipa Cathedral, on the left side of the Plaza de Armas, in the historic center of the city. The entrance is between the cathedral and the famous corner of the Portales de Arequipa.

What the Cathedral Passage Offers

This picturesque pedestrian passage is a point of tourist and photographic interest due to its proximity to the cathedral and its unique views of the colonial architecture and the volcanic landscape. Along the passage you will find cafes, craft shops and restaurants, which blend in with the white ashlar stone architecture of Arequipa.

Main Attractions

1. Side View of the Cathedral: From the passage, you can appreciate the beauty of the cathedral from a different angle, allowing you to closely observe its architectural details, the ashlar columns and the statues that adorn its façade.
2. Views of the Volcanoes: The passage offers spectacular views of the three volcanoes that surround Arequipa. On clear days, the Misti and Chachani rise majestically in the background, making this passage an ideal place to take photographs.
3. Cafes and Restaurants: Along the passage, you will find cafes and restaurants that offer typical dishes of Arequipa cuisine and local drinks. It is the perfect place to relax after touring the historic center.
4. Craft Shops: There are several souvenir and craft shops where visitors can purchase local products, from textiles to jewelry, made by artisans from the region.

Activities in the Cathedral Passage

• Photography: This passage is an ideal place to capture images of the cathedral and the volcanoes, as well as the daily life of the historic center of Arequipa.
• Enjoying Local Gastronomy: The cafes and restaurants offer delicious options such as Arequipeño coffee and typical dishes from the region, which can be enjoyed with an unparalleled view of the cathedral.
• Shopping for Crafts: Exploring the craft shops is an excellent way to take home a souvenir of Arequipa, supporting local producers.
• Rest and Enjoy the Atmosphere: The passage is a quiet place to sit and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere, with views of the cathedral and the volcanoes on the horizon.

Recommendations

• Visit at Sunset: At sunset, the sun illuminates the cathedral and the volcanoes in a spectacular way, creating a soft light that highlights the architectural and natural details, ideal for photographs.
• Wear Comfortable Shoes: The passage has cobblestones, so it is advisable to wear comfortable shoes to walk around it without problems.
• Take Advantage of Local Cafes and Restaurants: In addition to offering delicious food, these places have a privileged view and usually have open spaces, which allows you to enjoy the atmosphere of the city.

Costs and Hours

• Hours: The passage is free access and can be visited at any time of the day, although the shops and cafes usually open between 9:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m., depending on the business.
• Entrance Cost: Access to the passage is free. The expenses will depend on what is consumed in the shops or cafes along it.

How to Get There

• On Foot: From the Plaza de Armas, the passage is just a few steps away, and can be accessed on foot from any point in the historic center.
• By Taxi: Any taxi that arrives in the center of Arequipa can drop you off near the Plaza de Armas and the Passage of the Cathedral. It is advisable to use authorized taxis or mobile apps.

Extra Tip

For a complete experience, visit the passage during the day and return at dusk. The night lights of the cathedral and the serene atmosphere make the passage an even more special place. Also, try the “queso helado”, a traditional dessert from Arequipa that some cafes in the passage usually offer.

The Cathedral Passage in Arequipa is a charming corner that mixes history, gastronomy and unparalleled views in the heart of the city. It is a perfect place to relax and admire Arequipa’s colonial past in a quiet and picturesque environment.