The Sillar Route is a journey that takes you to the heart of the history and architecture of Arequipa, known as the “White City”. Along the way, you will explore the sillar quarries, a volcanic stone that has been key in the city’s construction since colonial times. In addition to learning about the extraction process of this stone, the route offers an immersion in the landscapes that have shaped Arequipa’s identity. It’s a unique experience that connects local culture with its architecture and nature.
The Sillar Route: A Journey to the Essence of Arequipa
The Sillar Route gets its name from the white stone that has been key in the construction of Arequipa, known as the “White City.” Over the centuries, sillar has been extracted and carved from the local quarries, and this journey allows you to learn about the extraction process and its historical and cultural importance. It also shows how this stone has played a fundamental role in the city’s identity and architecture.
What is Sillar and Why is it So Important in Arequipa?
Sillar is a white, lightweight, and porous volcanic stone formed 1.65 million years ago by eruptions from the Chachani volcano. Its name comes from the Quechua word “siklla”, meaning white stone. Thanks to its durability and ease of carving, artisans have used sillar extensively in the construction of churches and colonial buildings in Arequipa, contributing to the city earning the title of “White City” and its UNESCO World Heritage status.
Where is the Sillar Route and How to Get There?
The Sillar Route is located in the district of Cerro Colorado, about 14 km from downtown Arequipa, at an approximate altitude of 2,300 meters above sea level. The route includes the Añashuayco, Cortadores, and Culebrillas quarries, where visitors can observe the sillar extraction process. Access is available by taxi, tourist transport, or organized tours from the city center, which takes about 20-30 minutes. While public transport is also an option, it is recommended to go with a guide to fully enjoy the cultural and historical experience. The Sillar Route is open from 8:00 am to 4:30 pm.
What to See and Do on the Sillar Route
The Sillar Route not only takes you through the quarries but also offers an immersion into the nature and culture of Arequipa. Tourists can explore the sillar quarries, walk among unique rock formations, and learn about the city’s history through the work of the stonemasons. Additionally, the route includes visits to panoramic viewpoints, ancient petroglyphs, and stone sculptures, creating an experience that connects natural beauty with the city’s historical legacy.
| PANORAMIC VIEWS ON THE SILLAR ROUTE | DESCRIPTION |
|---|---|
| Añashuayco Quarry | This quarry is famous for the Megatallado of the Church of the Company of Jesus, a monumental representation of the facade of this church that highlights the art of carving sillar. Here, visitors can see the extraction process and the work done by local stone carvers. |
| Cutter’s Quarry | Adjacent to Añashuayco, this quarry offers a more detailed view of the artisanal work of the stone carvers, who have carved the stone to create unique architectural structures. |
| Culebrillas Quarry | A charming place with unique rock formations that provide an impressive natural setting. In addition to enjoying the views, tourists can see ancient petroglyphs carved by pre-Incan cultures like the Wari. |
| Volcanoes Viewpoint | From this viewpoint, you can admire panoramic views of the Misti, Chachani, and Pichu Pichu volcanoes, creating a unique scene for nature and photography lovers. |
Nearby Places to Explore
The Sillar Route is one of many wonders that Arequipa offers. The city is surrounded by impressive natural, cultural, and historical destinations, such as the Colca Canyon and the Yanahuara Viewpoint. These places complement the journey, providing more opportunities to explore the beauty and richness of the region.
| NEARBY PLACES | DESCRIPTION |
|---|---|
| Arequipa Cathedral | Located in the Plaza de Armas, this cathedral is an example of colonial architecture built with sillar. Its interior houses valuable religious artworks and is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. |
| Andean Sanctuaries Museum | This museum houses the famous mummy of the Lady of Ampato, an Incan offering found on the Ampato volcano. The mummy and artifacts showcase the rich pre-Incan history of the region. |
| Colca Canyon | A few hours from Arequipa, Colca Canyon is one of the deepest canyons in the world and an excellent place to see Andean condors soaring high. It is a popular ecotourism destination. |
| Chivay Village | Located in the Colca Valley, this village is famous for its hot springs and traditional architecture. It is an ideal stop to rest and enjoy the thermal waters. |
| Yanahuara Viewpoint | One of the most iconic spots in Arequipa, this viewpoint offers spectacular views of the city and nearby volcanoes. The sillar arch is also an architectural symbol of the city. |
| Santa Catalina Monastery | This convent is a small city within Arequipa, famous for its narrow streets, squares, and sillar walls. The monastery is an example of monastic life and colonial architecture. |
