There are few cities in the world like Arequipa that have the privilege of offering an architectural landscape as unique as it is impressive. The construction of its mansions, monuments, temples and, in general, the vast majority of buildings that surround the historic center, have ashlar as its main protagonist: an albino stone of volcanic origin whose special shine has given this city the distinctive 'White City'.
Currently, there is a tourist circuit called the Sillar Route where you will witness the entire extraction and detailed working process carried out with this mineral. The tour is accompanied by visits to magnificent natural settings whose geological formation is also due to this precious rock. An experience that, without a doubt, you cannot miss.
The ashlar quarries
With an extension of 2 km in length, the Ruta del Sillar is one of the greatest attractions of the region. The tour is organized by the Arequipa Research, Education and Development Center (CIED) and includes visits to the quarries of Añashuayco, Cortadores and Culebrillas, located on the outskirts of the city. The tour includes consecutive walks of up to 40 minutes in length.
In these places, the visitor will be amazed by the large number of sculptures, shields, utensils and many other pieces made of ashlar. One of the most visited points is the Sillar Rosado, a canyon that, thanks to the particular combination of sand, rock, ashlar and the effects of sunlight, reflects a captivating pink color in its structures. Due to its narrow terrain, the experience experienced when crossing it makes one feel like the character Indiana Jones. The walk is complemented by a demonstration of cutting and carving ashlar blocks by local sculptors.
Another visit is to the Culebrillas Quarry. Here, travelers will take a walk through the interior of the ravine and contemplate figures engraved on cliffs more than 30 meters high belonging to the Wari culture. At the end of the tour, it is possible to purchase the precious artistic works made from ashlar.
How to get?
The cost of a land ticket from Lima to Arequipa is 80 soles and the trip lasts approximately 16 hours. To get to the Ruta del Sillar, you must take a bus from Paradero la Curva, located in front of the Plaza Norte shopping center, in the White City. The price is 15 soles per person. Entrance to the Ruta del Sillar costs 5 soles.
We recommend that you wear comfortable clothing to carry out the walks calmly and without difficulties. Most trails are rocky and steep, so you should wear non-slip shoes.
The data
The ashlar stone is a sediment of volcanic origin made up of ashes and lapilli, which are small fragments of lava expelled during volcanic eruptions. The use of this material dates back to pre-Inca times and has endured over time thanks to its lightness, softness and plasticity. These characteristics inspired master stonemasons to sculpt both Hispanic and indigenous figures.
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