Moquegua

About

Settled by pre-Incan tribes, the first official mention of Moquegua as a Spanish settlement came in 1626 when it was known as ‘Villa de Santa Catalina del Guadalcazar’. Considered one of the most successful Peruvian cities thanks to its high GDP and quality of education, it processes much of the local agriculture such as olives, grapes, and pisco (grape brandy). Though commercially important, the residents of Moquegua still like to take things easy - just head to the Plaza del Armas, with its beautiful fountain designed by Gustav Eiffel, to enjoy the fresh are and relax with the locals. If you're looking to delve deeper into the city's colonial past, head to the 18th century Casa del Regidor Perpetuo de la Ciudad, which has been opened to the public as an antique-filled a house museum.