The city of Arequipa lies wrapped around the slopes of the great volcanic cone of El Misti and it is also watched over by the volcanoes Chachani and Pichu Pichu, often crowned by snow. At 7 660 feet / 2 335 meters above sea level, Arequipa enjoys an extraordinarily benign climate, with 300 days of sunshine each year. With its white-walled buildings, the historic center of the city is particularly beautiful. Local people have long understood the importance of preserving their magnificent colonial heritage, best expressed in the stunning architecture of the city’s imposing churches and elegant mansions, such as the Palacio de Goyeneche, Casa del Moral and Casa Ricketts.