Museo de la Recoleta (Recoleta Museum), Arequipa (must see)

If you find yourself wandering the enchanting city of Arequipa, a visit to the Recoleta Convent-Museum is a must. This historic complex blends religious devotion, colonial architecture, and cultural treasures in one intimate setting. Founded by the Recollect Franciscans in 1648 under the guidance of Father Pedro de Penaloza, the convent and its adjoining museum were conceived not only as a spiritual retreat but also as a bastion of learning and evangelization in the southern highlands of Peru.

The museum spans four graceful cloisters built from the distinctive white volcanic sillar stone, with arches and gardens that evoke a serene and contemplative atmosphere. Its twelve exhibition halls house an impressive array of collections: the Pre-Columbian gallery features ceramics, textiles, and artifacts from the Moche, Chimu, and Inca civilizations; the Amazonian rooms display specimens of flora and fauna, along with ethnographic objects belonging to indigenous groups such as the Shipibo, Ashaninka, and Yagua; and the Religious Art wing holds a profound collection of sacred art, including paintings from the Cusco School, sculptures, liturgical objects in precious metals, and rare devotional pieces.

One of the standout treasures is the convent’s library, which holds over 25,000 volumes-some dating as far back as the 15th century-and is regarded as one of Peru’s most important repositories of religious and historical manuscripts. Visitors can also explore monastic spaces like the cells of the superior and novice, the sacristy, and even an old cemetery where monks once labored in contemplation. Climbing to the viewpoint (mirador) yields one of the most compelling panoramas in Arequipa: sweeping views of the city framed by the imposing silhouette of the Misti volcano.