Archaeological Museum of the UNSA, Arequipa

The Archaeological Museum of the Universidad Nacional de San Agustín (UNSA) in Arequipa is housed in a historic mansion dating back to around 1866, one of the early years of Peru’s republican era. The building, with its two courtyards and a series of rooms, once served as a university dormitory before being transformed into a museum. Today, it provides an intimate yet informative setting for exploring the deep history of the Arequipa region, blending the elegance of its colonial architecture with carefully curated collections.

The museum preserves more than 8,000 artifacts unearthed in local excavations, offering a timeline of human development in southern Peru. Exhibits span from the Preceramic Era (5000–2000 BC) to the Early Horizon (550–200 BC), Middle Horizon (550–1000 AD), and Late Horizon (1000–1450 AD), highlighting the region’s role in the evolution of Andean cultures. Visitors can expect to see mummies, pre-Incan ceramics, textiles, and wood carvings that illustrate both daily life and ceremonial practices. A striking section of the collection also demonstrates the artistry of ancient craftspeople and the diversity of local traditions before the rise of the Inca.

Adding to its uniqueness, the museum does not limit itself to archaeology alone. The galleries also feature baroque furniture and paintings from the Cuzco School, a colonial artistic movement that fused European and Andean styles. This mix of themes gives the museum a distinctive character, bridging the ancient, colonial, and republican layers of Peru’s cultural story.

Though smaller than national institutions, the Archaeological Museum is well maintained and thoughtfully arranged, making it accessible for visitors who want to learn without feeling overwhelmed. For tourists in Arequipa, it offers a rewarding opportunity to connect with Peru’s distant past while appreciating the artistry and resilience that continue to shape the region’s identity today.