*
I went back to Arequipa from the mountains. But the weather there was terrible: a lifeless grey sky and a drizzle for days on end. So I made my way west to Corire to see Toro Muerto Petrographs, This is a huge expanse of rocks on a hillside carved with simple figures.
Corire offers a considerable contrast between the green, irrigated valley and the extraordinary barrenness of the mountains that surround it.
It is not the most lovable place as it`s very hot, filthy and the food is dreadful except in the chicken place close to the Hostal Willy`s and that doesn`t open until 6pm. There are only two buildings of architectural note: a convent and a colourful church. The people are not friendly or helpful or attractive except in the aforementioned chicken joint and a clever toothless chap with a little cart containing a shoe repair kit who fixed my shoes with immense skill so the heels no longer cut. The lady who will prepare a breakfast of egg in a bun and a sort of milkshake using condensed milk in the strange market opposite Willy`s is friendly too, albeit in a bossy way.
Three nights there was enough. I am curious to one day make the journey all the way to Cotahuasi, but that will have to be on another trip. Quite when I am not sure as I intend to conquer Ecuador next.
Corire, mountain, oil on card, 21 x 24.5 cm - available
Corire, a big mountain, oil on card, 21.2 x 24.5 cm - available
Corire, hillsides, oil on card, 21.2 x 24 cm available
*
.jpg)