The Cathedral of Arequipa is one of the most admirable specimens of church architecture in America. Its façade measures four hundred and fifty feet in length; three entrances, and the support of seventy columns of composite Ionic and Doric style, give a magnificent appearance to the edifice. The peculiar advantage offered by its location—dominating a spacious plaza—enhances the imposing effect of its splendid architecture, which would have been dwarfed, from an artistic point of view, in a less commanding site. The interior of the temple is divided into three naves, separated by superb columns that support the great arches above with harmonious effect. The main altar piece is of marble and the pulpit is a work of superior art in carved wood. There is an atmosphere of rest and peace within the walls of this noble edifice that is felt not only by the pious worshipper who seeks this consecrated place for the purpose of prayer, but even by the indifferent passer-by, attracted within by the music of the splendid choir, or by the artist’s appreciation of the beautiful. Of earlier origin than the Cathedral, the construction of the church of the Jesuits was begun in the sixteenth century, though it was not until a hundred years later that its vaulted roof was finished. It is one of the celebrated churches of Peru, both for its architectural importance and its interesting history. The Dominican friars founded their convent in Arequipa in 1582, and the present temple of Santo Domingo is among the principal churches of the city. Nearly all the religious orders were represented here during the viceroyalty, the Convent of Mercy having been founded in 1548, while the existing edifice was built nearly two hundred and fifty years ago. The Franciscans established their first convent in Arequipa in 1552, the church of this order at present being one of the largest and most beautiful in the city. There are three nunneries here, Santa Catalina, Santa Teresa, and Santa Rosa. [Illustration: STREET SCENE, AREQUIPA.]