Regions at a glance - Peru - page 94

ARCHITECTURE
Arequipa is widely touted as one of the best-preserved Spanish colonial cities in the
Americas, crafted uniquely out of white volcanic sillar rock. Less heralded are the exquis-
itely preserved baroque churches in Colca Canyon villages.
FOOD
Long before Peru became the 'Gastronomic Capital of the Americas,' Arequipa was fus-
ing Quechua, Spanish and Chinese influences to concoct a unique hybrid cuisine best
showcased in the city's traditional picanterías (informal local restaurants).
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Lake Titicaca
Festivals
Culture
Detouring
FESTIVALS
With wild costumes and more than 300 traditional dances, Puno is serious about its fest-
ivals. Not every city can boast a patron virgin; perhaps that's reason enough why the Vir-
gen de Candelaria (celebrated February 2) should feature a thunderous street party that's
the event of the year.