Museo de la Catedral de Arequipa

Yesterday we visited the Museo de la Catedral de Arequipa (Museum of the Cathedral of Arequipa).  For the first time I was tired out by something at this high elevation, the stairs up to the rooftop, but it was worth it.

The cathedral is located on the main square, just kitty-corner from the hotel.  It occupies the entire block facing the square and is a beautiful as you would expect.  For 10 soles a person (approx. $4, tip not included) you can take a tour of the museum and cathedral, with tours starting as soon as there are guests and a tour guide ready to go.  I saw at least three other guides, so there shouldn't be a long wait.  We did not have to wait at all.  Flora was our local, friendly and knowledgeable.

The cathedral has been partially or completely destroyed several times since the 1500's and the current building dates from the 19th century.  A candle was knocked over and an nearly all consuming fire took the somewhat smaller previous structure.  Several wealthy families made major donations at that time.  This incarnation is gorgeous with a high alter and Belgian built organ.

The museum houses vestments, various gold, silver and bronze religious items.  Photography was not allowed in the museum itself.  My most memorable items were the gold and jewel encrusted crown of thorns, tiny bowls that survived the fire (you can see where the host was in the bowls at the time of the fire, making a "hidden Mickey" in the bottom) and a cap given by a 20th century pope (can't remember which one) to a local family and eventually donated to the church.  There were other amazing pieces of gold and silver, with countless gems.  How I wish I could have taken photos!

Then we start the climb, first to the second floor observation walkway which overlooks the organ.  After that I remembered that I high in the mountains after so much time at sea level.  It is not that there are that many stairs to the roof, it is just that my legs were not quite ready for them.  But once you reach the time you forget the steps and take in the view of Misti, the city and the two bell towers.

There was an earthquake here about 10 years ago that toppled one of the towers and caused damage inside.  The tower was rebuilt in a matter of months.  The organ and statues inside are now reinforced and the cracks repaired.

We took our time up on the roof and shot many photos.  Flora was lovely and took some of us too.    It finally became time to descend.  It was a great hour and this is worth a visit!

Note the crack from the earthquake.

This one collapsed from the circle up.