Cirqa

Arequipa, Peru

Overview

Nestled in the historic center of Arequipa, this former monastery has been transformed into a beautiful Baroque-style hotel. Built in the year 1540, this architectural gem reflects the area’s colonial past, offering an enchanting stay in one of Peru’s oldest cities.

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Key Features

  • Architectural highlights include original sillar stone masonry, painted frescos, vaulted ceilings, and 11 luxurious suites resembling the authentic dimensions and feel of the monks’ chambers.
  • Deep in the Andes, Arequipa is surrounded by three towering volcanoes, visible from the hotel, and a diverse terrain of canyons and lagoons. Explore this striking landscape with expert guides, hiking through the highlands or rafting down the Chili River.
  • With direct access to Arequipa’s old quarter, step out to discover 16th century convents, sun-drenched plazas, and museums that trace the city’s colonial past.
  • Dine in CIRQA’s restaurant, enjoying classic Peruvian dishes curated by an acclaimed chef. Enjoy bold flavors and sundowners with sweeping rooftop views or venture out to explore Arequipa’s vibrant cafés and picanterías.

Location

Located within Arequipa’s old quarter, CIRQA is perfectly positioned to immerse its guests in the city’s rich cultural heritage. Behind the hotel’s stone walls, cobbled streets lead to ornate cathedrals, baroque façades, and flowering courtyards. Many of the city’s highlights are within walking distance, and the main square is only a block away, housing an elegant cathedral, swaying palms, and a series of lush gardens. Lively artisan markets capture Arequipa’s thriving arts scene, and traditional eateries showcase its authentic cuisine. Beyond the city, terraced fields extend into high altitude plains and unpathed roads wind through some of the deepest canyons on earth.

Design

One of Arequipa’s architectural wonders, this former monastery is one of the oldest buildings in the city still in use. It retains its original white sillar stone structure, with beautifully preserved archways, religious frescos, and high-vaulted ceilings. Rooms encircle the central terazza, an open-air courtyard with covered walkways. Natural light filters through airy spaces, keeping the interiors simple with a focus on architectural form. The hotel’s 11 suites, originally monk’s chambers, feature arched windows, private lounge areas, freestanding bathtubs, rainfall showers, and soundproofing for a restful night’s sleep. There is also a heated plunge pool, spa facilities, and a magnificent Salón with an extended lounge and dining area.

Activities

Wander through the maze of stone alleys and archways surrounding CIRQA, exploring the nearby Plaza de Armas and discovering charming neighborhoods on private tours, or viewing original artworks in local museums, such as the Claustros de la Compañía, one of the most beautiful examples of baroque metzito art in South America. Hike through the Andean foothills in the Chilina valley, located a 15-minute walk from the city centre, or embark on a full day highland safari in the Salinas and Aguada Blanca National Reserve, spanning salt flats, sparkling lagoons, and vast altiplano landscapes, home to rare wildlife including vicuñas, alpacas, guanacos, and flamingos.

Dining

CIRQA’S restaurant is known for its diverse use of local ingredients and bold flavors, inspired by the taste of Arequipa’s countryside picanterías. Capturing the essence of the region through its classic dishes, CIRQA’S seasonal menu is curated by María Fé García, a distinguished Peruvian chef. Guests can sip sundowners on the rooftop terrace, dine in the Salón’s monastic dining room, or explore the city’s vibrant food markets, discovering traditional eateries and exquisite restaurants.

Why we love it

Steeped in Arequipa’s ancient heritage, this magnificent hotel offers a gateway into the city’s cultural soul. Its astounding architecture, warm hospitality, and incredible location makes it one of the most stunning and unique city escapes in Peru.

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