La Cárcel de Siglo XX

La Cárcel de Siglo XX is a large stone building in central Arequipa designed and constructed as a penal facility. Its facade features several distinctive towers that are key elements of the overall design.

The building was constructed in the early 20th century and served as a prison for roughly 65 years before closing in 1987. After the inmates were relocated, the structure was repurposed for different uses.

The building reflects early 20th-century Peruvian prison design and follows patterns seen in other institutions of that era. Walking around it, you notice how the architecture expresses the correctional philosophies of that time.

Access to the interior is limited since the building now houses government offices and is not set up for visitors. You can observe the architecture and structure well from the outside.

The building witnessed a significant moment in Peruvian legal history when an important execution took place there in 1971. This made the site an important historical record for the nation.

Location: Arequipa Department

Location: Arequipa Province

Location: Arequipa District

Inception: 1905

GPS coordinates: -16.39995,-71.53014

Latest update: December 13, 2025 11:41