The old and the new Peru

by Marie Robinson Wright

GENERAL VIEW OF THE BATHS OF YURA.

AT THE BATHS OF YURA, AREQUIPA.

In importance, the second city in Peru, Arequipa is the capital of the department of the same name, and an important commercial as well as political and social centre. The administration of the department is in the hands of the prefect, Dr. Ximenes, whose authority extends to all its provinces and municipalities. He is well known in political circles for his progressive and enterprising ideas, and his government has been one of steady improvement and development. The department is divided into seven provinces: Arequipa, of which the chief city is the capital of the department; Islay, with its chief city, Mollendo; Cailloma, with its capital of the same name; Castilla, of which Aplao is the capital; Condesuyos, having Chuquibamba as its political centre; Union, extending north to the Department of Apurimac and dividing the Departments of Ayacucho and Cuzco, with Cotahuasi its capital; and the province of Camaná, stretching along the coast from Ica to the province of Islay: the city of Camaná, named after the province, of which it is the capital, and the city of Mollendo, are, together with Chala and Quilca, the principal ports of the State. Mollendo is a modern city, connected with Arequipa by railway, and is a stopping place for all the steamers of the Pacific and the South American Companies between Valparaiso and Panamá, as well as numerous other lines.

BOLOGNESI PARK, AREQUIPA.

The local interests of the city of Arequipa are governed by the Provincial Council, or Municipality. The present authorities have given especial attention to the improvement of the city, devoting earnest efforts to the carrying out of important public works. The previous council constructed new portales in the principal plaza, built the Grau bridge over the river Chili, established the water works system by which the city is supplied from Yumina, two leagues distant, and accomplished other reforms. The existing council is making notable improvements in the beautification of the Plaza de Armas; is constructing a new market building suitable to the growing needs of the city; and is perfecting the drainage system. The streets have been improved and many of them newly paved; Bolognesi Park is now a more charming paseo than ever; and a new electric street railway is to be established, which will connect the city with its beautiful suburbs. The municipality pays especial attention to public health, and the sanitation of the city is in charge of competent authorities who spare no effort to ensure the most healthful conditions. The city and its picturesque suburbs, Yanaguara and Tingo, are lighted by electricity.

Good roads are maintained throughout the department, and it is a pleasant journey to visit the various points of interest in the vicinity of Arequipa, which is surrounded by charming resorts for health and pleasure. Tingo, Zemarrat, and Sabandia are noted not only for their picturesque scenery but for the attractive appearance of their streets and gardens.

AVENIDA DE TINGO, AREQUIPA.