Mercado San Camilo, Public market in Arequipa District, Peru
Mercado San Camilo is a public market spanning three city blocks with hundreds of vendor stalls organized in different sections. The space features iron-roofed structures selling regional products including fresh produce, meat, and local goods throughout its layout.
The market was established in 1938 on the site of the former San Camilo Church, which was destroyed by an earthquake in 1868. The location took its name from the original church before becoming a commercial trading space.
Vendors sell traditional Arequipa dishes like stuffed rocoto peppers, hearty stews, and regional cheeses from nearby valleys. The place buzzes with locals choosing ingredients and eating at food counters throughout the day.
The market sits about 600 meters from Plaza de Armas and is easy to reach on foot from the city center. Visiting in the morning or early afternoon gives you the best selection and a more comfortable experience without heavy crowds.
The metal structure of the market incorporates architectural principles attributed to French engineer Gustave Eiffel. This design detail makes it a notable example of European influence in South American commercial buildings from that era.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
