subject: Coveting the Wonder of Catalina Convent [print this page] Coveting the Wonder of Catalina Convent Coveting the Wonder of Catalina Convent
There is a thread of rich heritage that runs from the 16th century to us today. It is woven into the tapestry of Latin America and draws the colonial past to the present while preserving both. This colorful, vibrant thread draws us to Peru on a journey from Lima to Arequipa where our thread willingly yields to being woven into the whole.
The Republic of Peru, which lies on the Pacific coast of South America, is home to the capital and fifth largest Latin American city, Lima. From this, largest Peruvian city, we travel 1000 kilometers south and east, along the Panamerican Highway, to the second largest city, Arequipa. While both boast large populations, distinctly, uniquely Peruvian, the similarities quickly begin to fade.
Lima, rising gently from the Pacific coast to an altitude of 500 meters, founded on three rivers, is home to over eight million people. It provides the back drop for the fast paced government, finance and industrial sectors. Arequipa, however, gives us an altogether different look.
Resting peacefully in the valley of the Chili River, Arequipa gently takes us back to the colonial era, with its Renaissance-style architecture. And, at elevations from 2000 to 2800 meters, its population of just under one million people find themselves a part of the Andes Mountain Range and benefactors of the beauty of three notable volcanic cones. Within this context, we find the abundance of volcanic rock, "sillar," and its use as a building material. So prevalent did the early builders employ this pinkish, pearly-white rock, that the city became know as "The White City." The picturesque texture of patterned sillar, called "ashlar," will be seen in much of the sought after viewer attractions as found in the cathedrals, colonial buildings and habitats, arches and in the Catalina Convent.
There is a grace and beauty to be found in the environs of the Convent. There is a sense of belonging that transcends the mere observation of the arches, bells, thoroughfares and buildings. There is a vibrance that pushes beyond the earth tones, reds and blues that embellish the walls and facades. What is this sense of simplicity yet profound? Do we visit to merely see or to become a part? The serenity of Arequipa and the Catalina Convent draw us, beckoning, asking us to stay or, at least, leave a part of ourselves.
If you'd like to visit the beautiful Catalina Convent yourself why not organise a tour with BFirst Travel for the experience only the locals know!
