Challen Clarke

Argentina may be known as the Paris of South America, but architecture buffs may discover a little more Paris in Peru.

Gustave Eiffel, the man who so famously built the Eiffel Tower in France’s capital, actually received praise and admiration in Peru long before he achieved success in his home country.  Examples of the Frenchman’s finest work can be found in the Amazon and Arequipa, two of Peru’s most popular destinations.

This means even if the rest of your family has no interest in admiring geometric beauty, you can easily find the time to check out his metal creations while on a family-friendly Peru vacation.

Eiffel in Peru

In the north of Peru’s Amazon River sits the bustling economic capital of the Amazon, Iquitos. This isolated river city, only accessible by boat or plane, was once the rubber capital of the world – back when rubber was a highly coveted commodity. On a busy street in Iquitos you will find La Casa de Fierro, or the Iron House.

A rubber baron of international tastes bought this per-fabricated metal house, designed by Eiffel for the 1889 Paris Exhibition, dismantled it, and had it shipped to Iquitos to use as his personal home.  Although it has been partially dismantled, used as a grocery store, factory, consulate, and social club, today it houses a 2^nd floor restaurant called Amazon Café where you can sip a fruit juice and beat the heat before venturing out to a jungle lodge or taking an Amazon river cruise.

Arequipa’s historic center is built from white volcanic sillar stone and is famously one of the most beautiful cities in Peru as well as the gateway to the Colca Canyon. The Colca Canyon, or the Grand Canyon of Peru, is known for its soaring Andean Condors, natural hot springs, and picturesque pastoral beauty.  This beautiful region of the world is also home to two of Eiffel’s creations: Bolivar Bridge and San Camilo Market.

Originally designed for railroad traffic, the Bolivar Bridge was shipped from Europe and assembled in Arequipa . The bridge is now a famous landmark in Arequipa and is used solely by cars , buses and trucks.  The San Camilo Market, designed by Eiffel, is the main market in Arequipa to this day. Just a few blocks from Plaza de Armas, the Camilo Market is a must-see for any traveler to Arequipa.  In addition to admiring the architecture, you can enjoy some traditional and locally-made Peruvian cuisine sold under its famous roof.

If you’re interested in learning more about Peru’s rich and diverse architectural heritage during your trip, contact this Peru travel agent and luxury travel consultant and ask about architecture and other cultural tours.