Bolognesi Bridge

Before you head down the stairs, step out onto Bolognesi Bridge and take in the view. Below you, the waters of the Chili River rush past, while on the horizon rise Arequipa’s three famous guardians: Misti, Chachani, and Pichu Pichu. To the people of Arequipa, these mountains are living, protective deities—their anger is feared, but they’ve also inspired some of the region’s most beautiful legends.

Look toward Pichu Pichu on your right. Notice anything unusual? Follow the outline of the ridge carefully.

Locals see the shape of a man lying on his back, arms crossed over his chest and face turned toward the sky. This is El Indio Dormido, the Sleeping Indian. Legend says that long ago, Pichu Pichu fell hopelessly in love with the majestic Chachani nearby.

But the gods, jealous of such a powerful love, forbade them from being together. Heartbroken, Pichu Pichu lay down forever, refusing to remain awake in a world without his beloved. Misti, with its almost perfectly shaped cone towering over the city, has a much more volatile reputation.

One story says the name Arequipa was born at its feet when the Inca Mayta Cápac, struck by the volcano’s beauty, stopped here and declared Ari quepay: “Here, I stay.” Another popular belief tells of a cruel chief who was transformed into a mountain of fire by the sun god as punishment for his wickedness, condemned to rumble beneath the earth for eternity. And according to another local tale, a smaller volcano once began growing beside Misti, determined to become even more fearsome than its father. To prevent disaster, a local priest supposedly wrapped enormous iron rings around its neck, chaining it forever so it could grow no more.

But the mystery here doesn’t stop at the volcanoes. It flows right beneath your feet. On nights when the river is swollen or the wind is strong, listen carefully above the Chili River and you may hear the whispers of the Mermaid of Bolognesi Bridge.

Legend says a mermaid lives in the depths below, patiently waiting for her mysterious lover to return. With her enchanting song, she is said to lure overly curious passersby toward the dark waters beneath the bridge. So if you hear a soft voice calling tonight, be careful—and whatever you do, don’t lean too far over the edge unless you want to become part of Arequipa’s folklore yourself.