Arequipa Peru Temple

On a bluff overlooking the Chili River, the Arequipa Peru Temple rises in majestic splendor. The Arequipa Peru Temple is a relatively new addition to Arequipa’s skyline, dedicated in December 2019 by Ulisses Soares. This temple, the third in Peru, serves a large community of Latter-day Saints from Southern Peru and even parts of Northern Chile. Its construction was first announced in 2012 by then-president Thomas S. Monson, a moment that marked a significant milestone for the church in Peru. The groundbreaking ceremony, a vibrant celebration of faith and community, took place in March 2017, led by Carlos A. Godoy. The temple’s location in Carmen Alto, just three miles north of Arequipa’s bustling city center, offers a tranquil escape. The site, near the entrance of this peaceful village, boasts breathtaking views of surrounding pastures and the majestic Misti volcano. The Arequipa Peru Temple is more than just a beautiful building. It’s a symbol of hope and faith for the over half a million members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Peru. The temple’s design incorporates local elements, including the Flor de Texao Arequipa, a local flower stylized in the temple’s woodwork, art glass, and stonework. Imagine the delicate beauty of this flower reflected in the intricate details throughout the Arequipa Peru Temple. The temple also features grey-white granite, a single central tower topped with the iconic Angel Moroni statue, and beautiful gardens filled with native plants. Among these are the vibrant cantuta, Peru’s national flower, and the queñua, a small Andean tree. Even the achupaya, traditionally used in Incan handicrafts, finds a home within the temple grounds. The Arequipa Peru Temple stands as a testament to the growing presence of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Peru. It is a beacon of faith, a place of peace, and a symbol of hope for the future.