Iglesia de la Compania (Church of the Company), Arequipa (must see)

The Church of the Company (Iglesia de la Compania) stands as one of Arequipa’s most celebrated examples of colonial religious architecture. Built by the Jesuits in the late 16th century, it quickly became a spiritual and cultural centre for the city, reflecting the order’s influence in Peru during the Spanish colonial period. Though damaged and rebuilt several times due to earthquakes, the church, as it appears today, retains the rich character of its past, combining European styles with local artistry to create a building that is as much a symbol of Arequipa’s identity as it is a place of worship.

From the outside, the façade captures immediate attention with its intricate carvings made from sillar, the white volcanic stone that gives Arequipa its nickname, the “White City.” Unlike the sober lines of other colonial churches, the façade of the church is a masterpiece of the baroque mestizo style, where European motifs blend seamlessly with indigenous designs. Flora, fauna, angels, and even Andean symbols appear intertwined, offering a visual dialogue between cultures that makes the church unique in Peru’s architectural landscape.

Inside, the atmosphere shifts to one of quiet elegance and artistic richness. The main altar, gilded and elaborately decorated, stands as the focal point, while the side chapels house remarkable works of colonial painting and sculpture. The Chapel of San Ignacio, in particular, is famous for its vividly painted murals depicting tropical flora and fauna, a striking contrast to the church’s more restrained stone exterior. Visitors are often surprised by this burst of colour, which reflects both the Jesuit missionary spirit and the creative hand of indigenous artists.

For travellers, the Church of the Company is not only a site of religious significance but also a window into the cultural blending that shaped Arequipa’s history. It offers an intimate perspective on the city’s colonial past, while its artistry and detail reward those who linger to observe its many layers.