Iglesia de Cayma

Does this church look familiar to any of you? You might recognize the Iglesia de Cayma from countless paintings. This unassuming church, standing gracefully in the heart of Cayma, holds a history as rich and captivating as those very artworks. Its tale stretches back to the origins of Arequipa, the ‘White City’, intertwining with legend and the enduring faith of its people. The Iglesia de Cayma is more than just a stunning example of sillar architecture. It’s a testament to the enduring spirit of the Arequipeñan people. The church holds the venerated image of the Virgen de la Candelaria, a gift from Emperor Charles V himself. Legend has it that as the indigenous people carried the image, a divine voice commanded them to halt. They tried to continue, but the image wouldn’t budge. This was seen as a sign, a divine decree to erect a sanctuary right there, on that very spot where the Iglesia de Cayma now stands. The church we see today is a testament to resilience as well. In 1868, a devastating earthquake shook Arequipa, leaving much of the city in ruins. The Iglesia de Cayma suffered significant damage, but amidst the destruction, the image of the Virgen de la Candelaria miraculously survived. The event solidified her image as a protector of the city, her presence a beacon of hope in times of hardship. The church was lovingly rebuilt, each stone meticulously placed, restoring its splendor as a beacon of faith.