Dab solver - Iquitos

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According Genaro Herrera, in 1866, Iquitos had a population of 648 people. For 1876, again the same author reports a population of 1,475 inhabitants.

In 1903, in the middle of the [[rubber boom]], Iquitos had 9,438 inhabitants (census of Benito Lords), of which 542 were foreigners, most of them from [[Spain]] (95) [[Brazil]] (80), [[China]] (74), [[Portugal]] (64) and as many from [[Italy]], [[England]], [[France]], [[Ecuador]], [[USA]], [[Russia]], [[Switzerland]] and [[Morocco]].

Currently, Iquitos has emerged as the largest city in the [[Peruvian Amazon]] and one of the most important of the Amazon in [[South America]]. Counted by the Census of 2007 with 406,340 inhabitants.

==  Government  ==

[[File:MPM-Iquitos.jpg|thumb|Headquarters of [[Provincial Municipality of Maynas]] which is the main political entity that administers the city.]]
Iquitos is a  with a system of government headed by a , composed of the Mayor and fifteen [[aldermen]]. The [[Provincial Municipality of Maynas]] (MPM) is the main body that has jurisdiction in the [[Maynas Province, Peru|]] and [[Iquitos District]], and authorities are elected by [[popular vote]]. The municipal government is responsible to plan development and territorial order within its jurisdiction, promote strategic coordinate on district order. It is responsible for [[public education]], correctional institutions, libraries, public safety, urban planning, regulation of all types of transportation, municipal tax collection, maintenance of public roads (asphalt, cleaning, etc..) and gardens, promoting culture and preservation of architecture and public places, among others. The Municipal Manager is responsible "to direct, coordinate, monitor and evaluate the technical, financial and administrative of the Municipality".107 lines hidden (20196 characters)
Iquitos has a unique culture that is strongly felt, as the following quotes says:
{{cquote|We are in the city of the alteration of the senses. [...] What is striking me is the ease with which iquitenses {{sic}} engage in conversation with tourists, with a warmth and naturalness that is rarely seen in my native place.|author=Max Palacios|source=in his blog Amores bizarros.}}

{{cquote|Although I'm a veteran of several South American adventures, Iquitos appealed to me as a quirk - a jungle city seems a contradiction and this would be my first Amazon visit to include the [[Cosmopolitanism|cosmopolitan]] luxuries of a real bed and shops. I'm fascinated at the very audacity by which such a city exists, thousands of kilometres from anywhere and with no roads to get there.|author=Jade Richardson|source=in an article titled "In an urban jungle"^ref}}

{{cquote|Nothing more appropriate to think of a fantastic city as a city of . Iquitos is an island, surrounded by an immense and immeasurable river, an island that goes wherever you go one to be crossed with fresh water and warm, with boats and small kids, with men and boys in the sun on the beach, with [[siren]]s and [[buzzard]]s and myths. A city that faced conflicts and [[war]]s against three countries, which suffered considerable infighting and even for some months it has its own [[currency]]. Island, yes; city, yes.|author=Edwin Chavez|source=writing about the [[idiosyncratic]] essence of the city.}}

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{{Under construction}}
{{Expand Spanish|Iquitos|date=September 2012}}
{{Infobox settlement



|name =Iquitos 
|official_name =Ciudad de Iquitos
|other_name =
|native_name =
|nickname ={{nowrap|Capital of the [[Peruvian Amazon]]}}, {{nowrap|The Amazonian Island}}
|settlement_type = [[List of cities in Peru|City]]
|total_type = 
|motto = ''Carpent tua poma nepotes'' ([[Latin]]: Your children will harvest your fruits)

|image_skyline = Montaje de Iquitos 2012.jpg
|imagesize = 275px
|image_caption = Clockwise from top: [[Iquitos District]] cityscape, [[Casa de Fierro]] built by [[Gustave Eiffel]]; Port Henry, [[Punchana District]] at dusk; Parade Ground and the Matrix Church in [[Iquitos District|Midtown Iquitos]]; the former Palace Hotel in the 
Tarapacá Levee; ubiquitous transport of the city, and the [[houseboat|floating houses]] in the [[Amazon river]].
|image_flag = Bandera de Iquitos.png
|flag_size =
|image_seal =
|seal_size =
|image_shield = Escudo Loreto.JPG
|shield_size = 70px
|image_blank_emblem =
|blank_emblem_type =
|blank_emblem_size =
|image_map ikj =ou
|mapsize =
|map_caption =
|image_map1 =
|mapsize1 =
|map_caption1 =
|image_dot_map =
|dot_mapsize =
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|dot_x = |dot_y =
|coor_type = 
|latd=3 |latm=44 |lats= |latNS=S
|longd=73 |longm=15 |longs= |longEW=W
|pushpin_map = Peru
|pushpin_label_position = 
|pushpin_map_caption =Location within Peru
|pushpin_mapsize =

|coordinates_region = PE
|subdivision_type = Country
|subdivision_name = {{PER}}
|subdivision_type1 = [[Subdivisions of Peru|Region]]
|subdivision_name1 = [[Loreto Region|Loreto]]
|subdivision_type2 = [[Provinces of Peru|Provinces]]
|subdivision_name2 =[[Maynas Province|Maynas]]
----
| subdivision_type3 = [[Districts]]
| subdivision_name3 = [[Iquitos District|Iquitos]], [[Belén District, Maynas|Belen]], [[Punchana District|Punchana]], [[San Juan Bautista District, Maynas|San Juan Bautista]]

| established_title = Settled
| established_date = 1624
| established_title1 = [[Municipal corporation|Incorporated]]
| established_date1 = 1866
| established_title2 = 

| government_footnotes =
| government_type = [[Local government]]
| governing_body = [[Provincial Municipality of Maynas]]
| leader_title = Mayor of the Iquitos City
| leader_name = Adela Jiménez

| area_footnotes = <ref>{{cite web|title=Caracterización del área de influencia de la carretera Iquitos - Nauta|url=http://www.iiap.org.pe/publicaciones/cds/zin/caracterizaci%C3%B3n.htm|accessdate=5 June 2013}}</ref>
| area_total_sq_mi = 468.5
| area_land_sq_mi = 302.6
| area_water_sq_mi = 132
| area_metro_sq_mi = 

| elevation_footnotes = 
| elevation_m = 104

| population_footnotes = 
| population_rank = [[List of cities in Peru|6th]]
| population_density_sq_mi= 
| population_est = 422,055
| pop_est_as_of = 2012
| population_metro = 457,865
| population_demonym = Iquiteño

|timezone = [[Time in Peru|PET]]
|utc_offset = -5
|area_code =65
|website = [http://www.munimaynas.gob.pe www.munimaynas.gob.pe]
}}
'''Iquitos''' ({{IPA-es|iˈkitos}}) is the [[metropoli|largest city]] in the [[Peruvian rainforest]] and the capital of the [[Loreto Region]] and [[Maynas Province]]. The city is considered the [[List of cities in Peru|sixth largest]] city of Peru, with 457,865 inhabitants. Furthermore, it is the heart of what has been officially designated as the Iquitos Metropolitan Area. A [[Honeypot (geography)|honeypot]], Iquitos is the hub where the food, culture, customs, worldview, and historical landmarks of Loreto meet. Its nickname as the '''Capital of the Peruvian Amazon''' acquired international status by hosting the [[commemorative plaque]] of the [[Amazon River]] as one of the [[New Seven Wonders of Nature|seven natural wonders of the world]].<ref>{{cite web|title=Iquitos, Capital de la Amazonia Peruana|url=http://www.atractivosturisticosdelperu.com/2009/02/iquitos.html|accessdate=17 August 2012}}</ref><ref name=Andina-amazon>{{cite news|title=Loreto busca recibir 500,000 turistas en dos años con intensas campañas publicitarias|url=http://www.andina.com.pe/Espanol/noticia-loreto-busca-recibir-500000-turistas-dos-anos-intensas-campanas-publicitarias-424394.aspx|accessdate=17 August 2012|date=14 August 2012}}</ref><ref name=Terra-Amazon>{{cite news|title=Amazonas forma parte de la memoria global del planeta Amazonas forma parte de la memoria global del planeta|url=http://noticias.terra.com.pe/nacional/amazonas-forma-parte-de-la-memoria-global-del-planeta,d8cd344dc8229310VgnVCM3000009acceb0aRCRD.html|accessdate=17 August 2012}}</ref>

Iquitos is located on the left bank of the Amazon river, in northeastern Peru. The city consists of four districts – [[Iquitos District|Iquitos]], [[Belén District, Maynas|Belen]], [[Punchana District|Punchana]], and [[San Juan Bautista District, Maynas|San Juan Bautista]] – that were created gradually as Iquitos grew and finally consolidated in 1999. Its founding date is uncertain, but historical documents state that Iquitos started as a Spanish reduction established by [[Jesuits]] along the Nanay River c. 1757 with the name "San Pablo de Napeanos," inhabited by indigenous Napeano (Yameo) and Iquito people. In the course of its history, the city had a strong showing in the [[rubber boom]] (1880-1914), a period of large economic and social development that gave this city its unique urban and cultural identity. Because of this, it has the largest [[gringo]] enclave in Peru.

Iquitos has a strong [[tourism]]-based [[economy]] as the main center of "Charapa culture." It is a [[Multiculturalism|cosmopolitan city]] with strong Amazon roots and [[cultural diversity]] that encourages creativity in its artistic community. The architectural legacy of the rubber boom has given the city another characteristic identity. Iquitos is considered a party town because of its entertainment that encompasses both its [[nightlife]] and [[cultural movement]]. Its demography is the most multi-ethnic in the Peruvian Amazon and maintains a [[melting pot]] status that resulted from the large [[immigration]] of foreigners and mixing during the rubber boom.

Several neighborhoods and landmarks of Iquitos are prized for their Amazonian, [[Europe]]an, and [[bohemian]] atmosphere, and the city attracts 46-150,000 tourists a year, a number that is expected to rise after the award of the Amazon. Recent international flights to the major hub of [[Panama City|Panama]] lead on to [[Miami]] and [[Cancun]] via PTY. The city was included, as number 6, on the list of "top 10 cities for 2011" by ''[[Lonely Planet]]''. [[Downtown Iquitos]] is considered the starting point for the city tour, and the Belén Market is described as the largest traditional market in the Peruvian Amazon.

The city can be reached only by airplane or boat, with the exception of a road to [[Nauta]], a small town roughly {{convert|100|km|mi|0|abbr=on}} south. It is the largest city in the world which cannot be reached by road. Ocean vessels of 3,000 tons or 9,000 tons<ref>[http://uk.encarta.msn.com/encyclopedia_761571466/Amazon.html Amazon] uk.encarta.msn.com. Retrieved 1 October 2006. [http://www.webcitation.org/5kwDrwYKD Archived] 31 October 2009.</ref> and {{convert|5.5|m|ft}} [[Draft (hull)|draft]] can reach Iquitos from the Atlantic Ocean, 3600&nbsp;km away. Most travel within the city via bus, motorcycle, or the ubiquitous [[auto rickshaw]] (''mototaxi'', ''motocarro'' or ''motokar''), which is essentially a modified motorcycle with a cabin behind supported by two wheels, seating three. Transportation to nearby towns often requires a river trip via ''peque-peque'', a small public motorized boat.

The climate is hot and humid, with an average relative humidity of 85%. The wet season lasts from around November to May, with the river reaching its highest point in May. The river is at its lowest in October.

== History ==
European-Peruvians established Iquitos as a [[Jesuit]] [[Mission (station)|mission]] to the [[indigenous peoples]] in the 1750s. In 1864 it started to grow when the settlers created the [[Loreto Region]] and made Iquitos its capital. It is the seat of a Roman Catholic [[Apostolic Vicariate]].<ref>[http://www.catholic-hierarchy.org/diocese/diqut.html "Vicariate Apostolic of Iquitos''], Catholic Hierarchy</ref>

Iquitos was known for its [[rubber]] industry throughout the [[rubber boom]] decade beginning in 1900;  it attracted thousands of immigrants from around the world, mostly young, single men who hoped to make their fortunes in rubber. The rise of the automobile and related industries had dramatically increased the worldwide demand for rubber. Some men became merchants and bankers, and made their fortunes that way. Many of the European men married [[indigenous peoples|indigenous]] women and stayed in Peru the rest of their lives, founding ethnically mixed families. The immigrants brought European clothing styles, music and other cultural elements to Iquitos.

Among the unique communities formed by the 19th-century rubber boom immigration was that of [[Sephardic Jews]] from [[Morocco]]. Many of the men married Peruvian women and made families in Iquitos. They established a [[synagogue]] and the Jewish Cemetery. By the end of the 20th century, four or five generations later, most descendants were no longer practicing Jews. In the 1990s, a descendant of a Jewish settler undertook serious study of the religion and began to revive Judaism among his family, friends, and other Sephardim descendants. After years of study, with the help of a sympathetic Conservative rabbi in [[Lima]] and another from [[Brooklyn, New York]], eventually a few hundred people learned and practiced and converted. (Conversion was necessary as their mothers were not Jewish.) Many of the converts emigrated to [[Israel]] under its "[[right of return]]" policy.<ref>[http://www.ruthfilms.com/the-fire-within.html Lonni Salcedo Mitrani, ''The Fire Within: Jews in the Amazonian Rainforest''], Ruthfilms, 2008</ref>

The wealthiest Europeans built great mansions in the late 19th century, some of which survive.  ''[[Casa de Fierro]]'' (Spanish for the Iron House) was designed by [[Gustave Eiffel]], designer of the [[Eiffel Tower]]. After rubber seeds were smuggled out of the country and began to be cultivated in quantity elsewhere, the Peruvian boom came to an end. The city is still an important trading port in the Amazon basin.

On August 13, 2012, a special [[Commemorative plaque|plaque]] was placed in the plaza 28 de Julio of the city in a big ceremony to commemorate the [[Amazon River]] and [[Amazon rainforest|rainforest]] as one of the [[Seven Natural Wonders of the World|seven natural wonders of the world]].<ref name=News7Wonder>{{cite news|last=Fitzgerald|first=Eamonn|title=Peru ready to celebrate the Inauguration of the Amazon as a Wonder of Nature|url=http://news.n7w.com/2012/08/06/peru-ready-to-celebrate-the-official-inauguration-of-the-amazon-as-one-of-the-new7wonders-of-nature/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=peru-ready-to-celebrate-the-official-inauguration-of-the-amazon-as-one-of-the-new7wonders-of-nature|accessdate=8 August 2012|newspaper=[[News7Wonder]]|date=6 August 2012}}</ref> The 21st-century-style plaque was [[forg]]ed alongside that of the [[Iguazu Falls]] in [[Munich]], [[Germany]].<ref name=New7Wonders-plaque>{{cite news|last=Fitzgerald|first=Eamonn|title=New7Wonders of Nature commemorative plaques cast in bronze in Munich|url=http://news.n7w.com/2012/04/10/new7wonders-of-nature-commemorative-plaques-cast-in-bronze-in-munich/|accessdate=8 August 2012|newspaper=New7Wonders|date=10 April 2012}}</ref>

== Geography ==
[[File:Iquitos by NASA.JPG|thumb|[[NASA]] satellite image showing the [[Amazon River Basin]] where [[Iquitos Metropolitan Area]] is located. [[Amazon River]] appears on the lower side of the photograph.]]
[[File:The Amazon meets Rio Nanay.jpg|thumb|[[Nanay River]] (black) meeting [[Amazon River|Amazon]] (light brown), a continuous phenomenon that occurs very close to the northern shores of [[Punchana District|Punchana, Iquitos]].]]
Iquitos is located in northeastern [[Peru]], northeastern [[Loreto Region]], and in the extreme south of the [[Maynas Province, Peru|Province of Maynas]]. Seated on a plain called the Great Plains, the city has an area of 368.9&nbsp;km ² (142.4&nbsp;mi ²), comprising the districts [[Belén District, Maynas|Belen]], [[Punchana District|Punchana]] and [[San Juan Bautista District, Maynas|San Juan Bautista]]. It is approximately at coordinates 03 ° 43'46 "S 73 ° 14'18" W to 106 meters. It is also the most northern Peruvian city.

It is surrounded by the Port of Iquitos that forms the [[Amazon River|Amazon]], [[Nanay River|Nanay]] and Itaya. It is situated on the left bank of the Amazon River, which provides a characteristic economic life, including [[trade]] and transport.<ref name="IIAP">{{cite web|last=Rodriguez Achung|first=Martha|title=Crecimiento Urbano de Iquitos: Condicionamientos Estructurales en la década del ’70 y sus Perspectivas|url=http://www.iiap.org.pe/Upload/Publicacion/ST008.pdf|work=IIAP|publisher=July 1994|accessdate=8 August 2012}}</ref> Itaya and Nanay Rivers are natural limits of the physical expansion of the city, allowing the development of spill grows towards south and there is a slight population density in Downtown Iquitos. Close to Iquitos also there are a number of lagoons and lakes, Moronococha Lake prominently, delimiting the city from the west. This feature turns the city on a huge, faux [[river island]].

Geologically, the city is settled in a [[Tertiary]]-[[Quaternary]] formation [[lithologically]] composed by little-consolidated [[lutite]]s, with remains of flora or fauna, and numerous [[white sand|white-sand]] lenses of abundant [[silicon]]. The residual soils are sandy, almost clay-like and variably deep.<ref name="IIAP" /> [[Physiography]], is a [[hazy]] landscape due to the undulations of the [[soil erosion]] caused by rain.<ref name="IIAP" />

===Climate===
Under the [[Köppen climate classification]], Iquitos experience an [[equatorial climate]] (Af). Throughout the year, it has constant [[rainfall]] so there is no distinct [[dry season]], and has temperatures ranging from 21 °C to 33 °C. The annual average temperature is 26.7 °C, with an average relative humidity of 115%. The average rainfall in Iquitos is 2616.2&nbsp;mm per year. Because the seasons are not sensitive in the equatorial zone, Iquitos has only two seasons.

It has a [[rainy]] [[Wet season|winter]], which arrives in November and ends in May, with March and April tend to include more humid climate. Precipitations of about 300&nbsp;mm and 280&nbsp;mm, respectively. In May, the Amazon River, one of the rivers surrounding the city, reaches its highest levels, repeatedly fell about 9 meters or 12 meters at its lowest point in October, and then steadily increases cyclically.<ref name=World-Guide>{{cite web|title=Iquitos Weather and Climate: Iquitos, Loreto, Peru|url=http://www.iquitos.world-guides.com/iquitos_weather.html|accessdate=19 de abril de 2012|work=World-Guide|language=inglés}}</ref>

[[Summer]] offers a very different climate. Although July and August are the driest months, remain some periods of [[Rain|downpours]]. Sunny days and good weather are common, and is utilized to dry things, high temperatures reaching 30 °C and an average of 32 °C. Rainfall felt over the years are more abundant than those of [[Ayacucho]], [[Cusco]] and [[Lima]].

Iquitos also has [[microclimate]]s: rain or [[drizzle]] may be present in some areas of the districts, while other parts of the city are slightly cloudy or clear. The temperature may vary.

The [[urban climate]] is slightly warmer than the natural climate, and would be reflected by the thermal sensation. It also suffers from a phenomenon called [[urban heat island]], where the heat has difficulty dissipating into the night hours.

Unusually, in June 2011, the city suffered the most extreme [[cold wave|coldspell]] in its history: the temperature dropped to 19°C (with an extremely low temperature of 12.9°C for 24 September), forcing people to warm themselves to an unprecedented degree.<ref>{{cite web|title=Climate of Iquitos|url=http://www.tutiempo.net/clima/Iquitos/2011/843770.htm|work=TuTiempo.net|accessdate=8 August 2012}}</ref>

{{Weather box|location = Iquitos, Peru
|metric first = yes
|single line = yes
|Jan high C = 31.6
|Feb high C = 31.7
|Mar high C = 31.9
|Apr high C = 31.0
|May high C = 30.6
|Jun high C = 30.4
|Jul high C = 30.9
|Aug high C = 31.6
|Sep high C = 32.1
|Oct high C = 31.9
|Nov high C = 31.9
|Dec high C = 31.7
|Jan low C = 22.1
|Feb low C = 22.0
|Mar low C = 22.1
|Apr low C = 22.1
|May low C = 21.9
|Jun low C = 21.3
|Jul low C = 20.8
|Aug low C = 21.1
|Sep low C = 21.4
|Oct low C = 21.8
|Nov low C = 22.1
|Dec low C = 23.2
|rain colour = green
|Jan rain mm = 279.0
|Feb rain mm = 226.7
|Mar rain mm = 279.0
|Apr rain mm = 309.8
|May rain mm = 273.7
|Jun rain mm = 190.1
|Jul rain mm = 181.9
|Aug rain mm = 164.6
|Sep rain mm = 189.0
|Oct rain mm = 241.9
|Nov rain mm = 260.2
|Dec rain mm = 282.4
|year precipitation mm = 2878.3
|Jan precipitation days=21
|Feb precipitation days=17
|Mar precipitation days=22
|Apr precipitation days=20
|May precipitation days=21
|Jun precipitation days=19
|Jul precipitation days=15
|Aug precipitation days=15
|Sep precipitation days=16
|Oct precipitation days=17
|Nov precipitation days=19
|Dec precipitation days=20
|year precipitation days=222
|unit precipitation days=0.1 mm

|Jan sun= 137.
|Feb sun= 97.
|Mar sun= 106
|Apr sun= 97
|May sun= 110
|Jun sun= 114
|Jul sun= 141
|Aug sun= 155
|Sep sun= 139
|Oct sun= 132
|Nov sun= 124
|Dec sun= 125
|year sun= 1477
|source 1 = Hong Kong Observatory,<ref>{{cite web
|url=http://www.weather.gov.hk/wxinfo/climat/world/eng/s_america/ec_per/iquitos_e.htm |title=Climatological Information for Iquitos, Peru|publisher=Hong Kong Observatory}}</ref>|date=August 2010
|source 2 = World Weather Online,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.worldweatheronline.com/Iquitos-weather-averages/Loreto/PE.aspx |title=Iquitos climateology|publisher=World Weather Online}}</ref>|date=September 2012
}}

=== Natural hazards ===
[[File:Iquitos inundaciones aereo.jpg|thumb|[[Belén District, Maynas|Belén District]], located east of Iquitos, affected by [[2012 Loreto floods]]. The famous Belen Neighborhood is in it.]]
The main natural hazard is [[flooding]]. In 2012, [[2012 Loreto floods|major flooding occurred in Iquitos]] who alerted the population and affected coastal areas and several towns in the metropolitan area, which has a floodable, rainy geography. The floods of 2012 were regarded as the most historic natural disaster to Iquitos to date. Wet weather in Loreto took showers and drizzle, causing damage and flooding in the Loreto Region since November 2011. The rainy weather continued until early 2012, and increased the level of water in the Amazon river —wide stream that feeds most of the tributaries in Loreto— up to 117 m. Since February and March, several villages are affected (19,209 and 18,400 families affected), 26 000 hectares of farmland are flooded and the water level reached coastal streets of Iquitos. On April 24, 2012, the spate faded, and initiated the first stage of [[Tide|ebb]].

Other natural hazards are [[heat wave]]s can reach over 37 °C with a [[windchill]] of 45 °C which is caused by the low humidity on clear days. [[Cold wave]]s are also curious in Iquitos: cold air from the tip of the continent driven by the dynamics of the atmosphere, comes to town and causes a drop in temperature, moderate rainfall and thunderstorms. The trade winds also come to cause gales reaching 60&nbsp;km / h. In October 2012, Iquitos experienced high temperatures and heavy thunderstorms.

Earthquakes in the city are very rare and very deep. Iquitos is located in Region 3 of Systematic Regionalization Map of Peru, which means that the city has a low coefficient [[seismic value]], although the 2011 Peru earthquake, which occurred southeast of [[Contamana]], was felt in the city as a small and unexpected jolt.<ref name="IIAP" />

== Ecology ==

Due to its location in the [[Peruvian Amazon]], Iquitos has a green landscape with a vast variety of life. The flora is varied with great presence of 850 species, including 22 species of palms and orchids, who provide the attractive forest within the urban landscape of the city. The lilies also present. The extensive forests seated within metropolitan influence host fauna with 130 species of mammals, 330 of birds, 150 of reptiles and amphibians, and 250 fish. Within the city, inhabiting the [[rock dove]] (''Columba livia''), especially in the Square 28 de Julio. Also recorded the transient presence of [[bull shark]]s (''Carcharhinus leucas'') who come from the Atlantic Ocean, traveling 3,360 miles to Iquitos.

The floodplain forest of Iquitos is the peculiar ecoregion which surrounds the city, and is characterized by a [[várzea forest]] called [[Iquitos varzea]]. Its alluvial detail is the motive why intense rainy seasons easily reach these areas flood. In the natural cycle, the trees drop their leaves and other organic waste to the soil, and become [[humus]]. Rain washes these nutrients into rivers, which gives that blonde color, called [[tannin]]. Immediately, this cycle repeats.

The great biodiversity that the Iquitos Metropolitan Area houses and protects is paramount, and that is intrinsically related to its urban planning, which puts a limit action in areas where farms should not be built. Because of this, the appearance of [[informal settlements]] is seen as a risk.

=== Natural reserves and zoos ===
The importance of the existence of nature reserves is a priority in Iquitos for ecosystem protection.

The [[Allpahuayo-Mishana National Reserve]] is a protected area with soaring rates of biodiversity. The reserve is located 20 kilometers from Iquitos, being reached by Route LO-103. The ecosystem is part of the [[Nanay River]] basin, specifically in an area called "Ecoregion Napo", which contains a unique Amazonian biodiversity, including its distinctive white sand forests. The Napo Ecoregion contains 112 species of [[amphibian]]s, 17 species of [[primate]]s, 1900 plant species and over 600 birds species. Some ecologically important animals care for their rarity in the reserve are the supay pichico (''[[Callimico goeldii]]'') black stump (''[[Callicebus torquatus]]''), equatorial saki (''[[Pithecia aequatorialis]]'') Ancient Antwren (''[[Herpsilochmus gentryi]]''), Mishana Tyrannulet (''[[Zimmerius villarejoi]]''), Allpahuayo Antbird (''[[Percnostola arenarum]]''), chestnut-tailed ant (''Myrmeciza centuculorum castanea''), the Pompadour Cotinga (''[[Xipholena punicea]]''), Saffron-crested Tyrant-Manakin (''[[Neopelma chrysocephalum]]''), among others. [[Iquitos Gnatcatcher]] ([[Polioptila clementsi]]) is an endemic species of the reserve and is considered a symbol of Iquitos.

[[Quistococha Tourist Complex]] is characterized by its variety. The place is located 6 kilometers from Iquitos via Route AS-103, and with a extension 369 hectares of natural forest, has a small zoo, a [[serpentarium]], an aquarium, a nursery and an artificial beach called Tunchi Beach.

The [[butterfly zoo]] [[Pilpintuwasi]] is located in Padre Cocha, Iquitos, and includes more than 40 species of insects, especially butterflies. Along the butterfly zoo, is the Amazon Animal Orphanage, commissioned in [[animal rescue group|animal rescue]].

== Demography ==
[[File:Iquitos et l'Amazonie 835 .jpg|thumb|200px|The northeast side of Iquitos in 1987, when the population of Iquitos still maintained its rural aspect in developing as a [[metropolis]].]]
In 1808, Hipolito Sanchez Rangel, the [[bishop]] of Maynas, reported that the village had 171 inhabitants of Iquitos and the June 8, 1842, date where the town was elevated to district, had just over 200 inhabitants.

In 1860, according to Paz Soldan, the town had only 300 inhabitants. Two years later, the population increased to about 431 inhabitants and in 1864, there were 648 people, predominantly mestizo due to the presence of families from Borja, Santiago, Santa Teresa, Barranca and others, who fled away from the attack on the Huambisas and Aguaruna native and destroyed the villages.

According Genaro Herrera, in 1866, Iquitos had a population of 648 people. For 1876, again the same author reports a population of 1,475 inhabitants.

In 1903, in the middle of the [[rubber boom]], Iquitos had 9,438 inhabitants (census of Benito Lords), of which 542 were foreigners, most of them from [[Spain]] (95) [[Brazil]] (80), [[China]] (74), [[Portugal]] (64) and as many from [[Italy]], [[England]], [[France]], [[Ecuador]], [[USA]], [[Russia]], [[Switzerland]] and [[Morocco]].

Currently, Iquitos has emerged as the largest city in the [[Peruvian Amazon]] and one of the most important of the Amazon in [[South America]]. Counted by the Census of 2007 with 406,340 inhabitants.

== Government ==
[[File:MPM-Iquitos.jpg|thumb|Headquarters of [[Provincial Municipality of Maynas]] which is the main political entity that administers the city.]]
Iquitos is a <<link:0>> with a system of government headed by a <<link:1>>, composed of the Mayor and fifteen [[aldermen]]. The [[Provincial Municipality of Maynas]] (MPM) is the main body that has jurisdiction in the [[Maynas Province, Peru|Maynas Province]] and [[Iquitos District]], and authorities are elected by [[popular vote]]. The municipal government is responsible to plan development and territorial order within its jurisdiction, promote strategic coordinate on district order. It is responsible for [[public education]], correctional institutions, libraries, public safety, urban planning, regulation of all types of transportation, municipal tax collection, maintenance of public roads (asphalt, cleaning, etc..) and gardens, promoting culture and preservation of architecture and public places, among others. The Municipal Manager is responsible "to direct, coordinate, monitor and evaluate the technical, financial and administrative of the Municipality".

The MPM has support bodies formed by the General Secretariat, the Office of Institutional Image, Administrative Management, Revenue Management and the General Office of Information. The line agencies are [[bureaucratic]] managers with a distinct role and have the function of carrying out the institution's mission, which includes the [[Urban planning|Territorial Conditioning]], [[Sanitation|Sanitation and Environmental Health]], Works and Infrastructure, [[Public transport|Traffic and Public Transport]], [[Social Development]], Economic Development and Municipal Services. The MPM organizes the Municipal Ombudsman Service of Child and Adolescent.

The Mayor is Adela Jimenez, an architect, chosen by the [[National Jury of Elections]] to fill temporarily to Charles Zevallos who was suspended for health reasons. Jimenez is the first woman to hold the office of mayor provincial and Iquitos.

The political geography of Iquitos is comprised four districts or [[commune]]s, each with a district municipality. Except [[Iquitos District]] does not have a district municipality as such, the Provincial Municipality of Maynas also functions as his council district. The other districts are with a respective one: District Municipality of Punchna, the District Municipality of San Juan Bautista and the District Municipality of Belén. Each municipality has interference in his own district, and each has a policy of [[urban planning]] that is created according to the state of his district.

== Human rights ==
The human rights of Iquitos are based on the Constitution of Peru that provides a fair treatment with respect to race, nationality, religious beliefs or social status. The document states that there should be no discrimination on "grounds of origin, race, sex, language, religion, opinion, economic or other purposes", and must be present the full practice of [[economic, social and cultural rights]]. The Municipal Ombudsman for Children and Adolescents (Demuna), directed by Sinthya Felicita Flores Carmona, is a special ministry that provides protection to [[children's rights]]. [[Indigenous rights]] is another important approach in native communities living in the metropolitan region.

The city's human rights have met with strong and complex [[social conflict]]s that violate the [[Universal Declaration of Human Rights]]. Also, movements are made of any kind seeking recognition and protection of their rights.

In Iquitos, conflicts with human rights have been reported such as [[gender discrimination]] and [[violence against women]], [[prostitution]], including [[child sex tourism]], [[homophobia]], among others.

== Environmental issues ==
[[File:Iquitos Mosquitos at redlight.jpg|thumb|The [[autorickshaw]] is the main cause of [[noise pollution]] in the city.]]
The environmental management of the city has faced the accumulation of [[garbage]] in various parts of the city and along more informal piers, and creating a remarkable [[visual pollution|visual]] and [[soil pollution]]. The result is a serious blow to [[environmental ethics]], being the providing a profile of [[sustainable city]]. The problem usually occurs in the informal settlements and markets such as Belén. In the central areas, some people [[Litter|throw away trash on the ground without apparent concern]] although there is a law against it. In other minor cases, seem to ignore the cubes, being close to them, throw away the trash on the ground anyway. In markets, the presence of illegal dumping is another problem.

The government and several environmental organizations in Iquitos began spreading environmental education of citizens, and the results obtained were of slight beneficial impact gradually. However, the garbage (usually piled in mounds) still appears in various parts of the city, due to the lack of environmental awareness in the majority of citizens.

[[Noise pollution]] caused by their bustling public transport also seriously affects the city, and has always been tolerated ignoring alarms despite charging high intensity in recent years. The frenetic urban noise up to 115 decibels exceeds the desirable level (70 dB) indicated by the [[World Health Organization]] and, therefore, makes Iquitos in the noisiest city in Latin America.

On the hydrological, Iquitos encourages the protection of [[Nanay River]] basin because it is major, natural [[Water supply network|drinking water supply]].

== Extension ==

=== Metropolitan area ===
[[File:Distritos de Iquitos.png|thumb|290px|The four urban districts of Iquitos: '''[[Iquitos District|1:&nbsp;Iquitos]]''' '''[[Belén District, Maynas|2:&nbsp;Belén]]''' '''[[Punchana District|3:&nbsp;Punchana]]''' '''[[San Juan Bautista District, Maynas|4:&nbsp;San Juan Bautista]]'''. The suburban and urban production zones are narrowly close to urban areas, especially south of San Juan. The limits are indicative because the city experienced a remarkable expansion.]]

The city is the urban core of Iquitos Metropolitan Area. It is a conurbation consists of four districts that are heavily populated in the city, while rural areas become more so away from the downtown. The Iquitos District is the urban origin of the city and the metropolitan area. Moronacocha, which has 85,000 inhabitants, could become the fifth district of Iquitos.

Iquitos is composed of four districts.
*'''[[Iquitos District|Iquitos]]''' (Iquitos District: 163, 594 inhabitants)<ref name="Maynas en Cifras">{{cite web|title=Maynas en Cifras|url=http://www.munimaynas.gob.pe/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=149&Itemid=72|accessdate=8 August 2012}}</ref> is the main district of the city, and is the most visited by tourists. The center of Iquitos, located in the heart of the district, is best known, and it has most of the activities of economy, culture, entertainment, art and commerce of the city. The Plaza de Armas is the tourist point of departure for most tourists, along with the [[Casa de Fierro]], the Iglesia Matriz, the former Palace Hotel, the Boulevard de Iquitos, the Malecon Tarapaca and the Amazon Library.
*'''[[Belén District, Maynas|Belén]]''' (Municipality of Belen District: 74, 551 inhabitants) is one of the districts of the city known mainly for its intense commercial activity and the [[Belen Neighborhood]], called the "Venice" by ''iquiteños''. It is located on the east side of Iquitos and was created on November 5, 1999.
*'''[[Punchana District|Punchana]]''' (Municipality of Punchana District: 85, 179 inhabitants)<ref name="Maynas en Cifras" /><ref name=Punchana-muni>{{cite web|title=Municipalidad Distrital de Punchana: Datos generales|url=http://www.munipunchana.gob.pe/datos_generales.html|accessdate=8 August 2012}}</ref> is the northern district of Iquitos and was created on 17 December 1987, and is characterized more by its [[port]] activity and [[Bellavista-Nanay market]]. Punchana capital has a small district [[Human capital|capital]] called [[Villa Punchana]]. 90% of the district is composed of urban land, while 10% is rural. In the history of Iquitos, Punchana started as a small hamlet and the name of the district is due to a kind of wild [[agouti]], which was cared for in a [[breedingground]] at the beginning of the 20th century.<ref name=Punchana-hist>{{cite web|title=Municipalidad Distrital de Punchana: Historia|url=http://www.munipunchana.gob.pe/historia.html|accessdate=8 August 2012}}</ref>
*'''[[San Juan Bautista District, Maynas|San Juan Bautista]]''' (Municipality of San Juan Bautista District: 124, 143 inhabitants), colloquially known as '''San Juan''', is the largest district of Iquitos, and which is constantly expanding to the south of the city due to the arrival of new families to the city —also embraces remote areas beyond the urban Iquitos, such as the [[Quistococha Resort and Zoo]].<ref name=SanJuan-muni>{{cite web|title=Municipalidad Distrital de San Juan Bautista: Historia|url=http://munisanjuan.gob.pe/historia/|accessdate=8 August 2012}}</ref> Before promoted as a populous district in the presidency of Fernando Belaunde in the 1960s, the district was a sparsely populated road. Currently, several human settlements are in the "expansive" border areas. In this district, there are several tourist spots such as the San Juan Craft Market, the beaches of Santa Clara and St. Thomas, and [[Allpahuayo-Mishana National Reserve]] (located in the Iquitos-[[Nauta]] Highway).

The metropolitan area of Iquitos is also organized by another system subdivisions, less known by the local colloquialism.

*'''Downtown Iquitos''' houses the historical extension of Iquitos, and its main shopping and entertainment movement. This includes closely eastern union between Iquitos and Belen districts.
*'''North Iquitos''' comprises Punchana and northern Iquitos.
*'''South Iquitos''' comprises mostly to San Juan Bautista, sectors such as Terminal and much of its length south.
*'''West Iquitos''' comprises the western parts of the Iquitos District as Moronacocha.
*'''East Iquitos''' would be hosting in all the Belén District, and the eastern part of Belén.

== Economy ==
[[File:Gasolinera en Iquitos.jpg|thumb|left|200px|A [[Petroperú]] [[filling station]] near [[Downtown Iquitos]]. Most service stations in the city have a [[convenience store]].]]
[[File:Jirón Próspero de Iquitos.JPG|thumb|200px|A block of Jiron Prospero, one of the four major avenues of the city with shops along its length.]]
[[File:Belen Market.jpg|thumb|200px|The [[Belen Market]] is considered the largest [[street market]] in the Peruvian Amazon, and an important commercial and economic exchange.]]
Iquitos is the main center of commerce, tourism and industry in the Amazon rainforest with the world. As gateway to the Peruvian Amazon, the economy of many parts of the region come to Iquitos for sustainable control. The Economic Development Management of the Provincial Municipality of Maynas is responsible for regulating and regulate trade, business development and employment, tourism and rural production both Iquitos District as whole Maynas Province. Meanwhile, the [[Chamber of Commerce]] of Iquitos is headed by economist Victor Manuel Valdivia Barberis.

The city is a major center for [[finance]], sales, transportation, tourism, media, while major industries that work is the [[timber industry|timber]], [[petroleum industry|petroleum]], [[gas]], [[flour milling]], [[oil]], [[rum]], [[camu camu]] and [[bakery]]. The [[fishing industry]] is another big support for the economy of the city. The [[Belen Market]] has a frenetic commercial activity that is part of its economy. Iquitos has great financial backing has been able to help it progress now since its role in the [[rubber boom]], although must be overcome with effort after the [[rubber]] was no longer produced in the city. The petroleum industry, despite being outside the urban area of Iquitos, has greatly influenced its evolution. In addition, trade has mainly helped the growth of the city. In San Juan Bautista, economic development is based on agriculture ([[sugar cane]], [[peach palm|pijuayo]], [[star apple|caimito]]), fish, [[poultry]], [[livestock]] ([[cattle]], [[bubaline]]) and [[mining]]. The petroleum, one of the most precious resources, extracted mainly from the region northwest of Loreto and part of it is transported to the [[refinery]] in Iquitos. The timber transport is another important economic factor, however, due to the [[Free Trade Agreement]] between Peru and the [[United States]], the gross exploitation of timber has decreased considerably.

According to Rolando Arellano, president of Arellano Marketing, describes the ''Iquiteño'' consumer to have greater preference for a "[[Western world|Western model]] with a more modern orientation than the Peruvian-Andean lifestyle".

With projects of large [[malls]], the city still has a trade-in retail stores and minimarkets throughout the metropolitan area, more strongly in main avenues as Prospero, Arica, Grau and Alfonso Ugarte located in the center of Iquitos and the Belén District. [[Retail|Retail distribution]] of imported products has created regional and social stratification that goes from the merchant importer to urban [[retailer]], which serves as a strong link between the urban and rural economy.

Notorious companies available or are based in Iquitos are Amazónica, [[Backus]], [[Banco Continental]], [[Banco de Crédito del Perú]], Banco de la Nación, Banco Financiero, [[Bata Shoes]], [[Claro Americas]], CrediVargas, [[DHL Express]], [[DirecTV]], Electro Oriente, Galerías Quispe, Hipermercados Pirámide, [[Honda]], Husqvarna AB, Inkafarma, [[Interbank]], Los Portales, [[Mapfre]], Motocorp, Multicines Star, Orvisa/[[Caterpillar]], Persa, [[Petroperú]], [[RadioShack]], [[Scotiabank]], Shambo, [[Special Book Services]], [[Telefónica]]/[[Movistar]], [[The Coca-Cola Company]], Topitop, [[Western Union]], [[Yamaha Corporation]], among others.

In the coming years, companies like [[Ripley S.A.|Ripley]], [[Saga Falabella]], Metro, [[Plaza Vea]], [[Tottus]], among others, would be available.

== Education ==
Iquitos is home to numerous research projects on ecology related to [[ornithology]] and [[herpetology]]. [[Cornell University]] owns a field station dubbed the [[Cornell University Esbaran Amazon Field Laboratory]]. Founded in July 2001 under the direction of Dr. [[Eloy Rodriguez]], the facility is dedicated to education, [[conservation biology|conservation]], and the discovery of novel medicinal compounds from applied field [[chemoecology]].

The field lab strives to survey and catalog the biological diversity found along the [[Yarapa River]] Basin. It provides researchers with field experience in the broad range of disciplines necessary for this task. Another major goal is to explore value-added derivatives of biodiversity. This includes both tangible returns, in the form of new discoveries in the biomedical and related sciences, as well as less tangible goods, such as the promotion of [[ecotourism]] and an ecological ethic. They work to ensure benefits to the local communities, and to participating students and researchers.

=== Universities ===
Iquitos has four universities: Universidad Nacional de la Amazonía Peruana (UNAP), the local state university; Universidad Particular de Iquitos (UPI), Universidad Científica del Perú (UCP), Universidad Peruana del Oriente (UPO) three private institutions. It is also home to the ''Instituto de Investigaciones de la Amazonía Peruana'' (IIAP), the Institute of Investigation of the Peruvian Amazon.

== Transport ==
[[File:Iquitosmoto.jpg|thumb|200px|left|Abelardo Quiñonez Avenue located in south of Iquitos. It is a larger preferential roadways.]]
Iquitos has a personality very different from the rest of Peru and even different from other South-American Amazonian cities. The streets of Iquitos are dominated by more than 25,000 [[auto rickshaws]] or motokars, known in the rest of Peru under the name of mototaxi, and for foreigners as auto rickshaw or tuk-tuk, providing taxi service. The [[bus]]es are large vehicle made of wood with direct routes.

Iquitos is widely regarded as the largest inland city that is inaccessible by road. The air and river transport are the main means for entry or exit of people and goods to the city, since the cost of living in this city and people of the region is generally higher than the Peruvian standard. It is considered that Iquitos is the second most expensive city in Peru after [[Cusco]].

The city has renewed [[Crnl. FAP Francisco Secada Vignetta International Airport]] where domestic and international flights operate. In the domestic terminal there are routes from [[Lima]] and other [[Provinces of Peru|Peruvian provinces]]. While in the international terminal there are flights to [[Panama City]]. There are between 8 to 9 daily flights to Iquitos from Lima, some make intermediate stops in [[Pucallpa]] and [[Tarapoto]], and 2 weekly flights to Panama City. Air routes are served by four companies: [[LAN Perú]], [[Peruvian Airlines]], [[Star Perú]] and [[Copa Airlines]]. The direct flight between Lima and Iquitos takes 1 hour and 45 minutes. Copa Airlines provides international flights to the city with Panama and the Americas from the July 14, 2012. Since June 2011, the Central Government of Peru provided two [[de Havilland Canada DHC-6 Twin Otter|de Havilland Canada DHC-6 ''Twin Otter'']] for operations across the region.

Iquitos can be reached from any foreign port or waterway in the [[Peruvian Amazon]].

==Cityscape==

===Architecture===
[[File:Iquitos.jpg|thumb|170px|The [[Ex Hotel Palace|former Hotel Palace]] (built from 1908 to 1912) by Samuel Young Mass, located on the first block of Jiron Putumayo, in an area known as the [[Malecón Tarapacá]].]]
Iquitos has architecturally significant buildings in a particular range of structural remnants were built during the [[rubber boom]] of the 1880s. Comprise mainly [[Architecture of Europe|European]]/Amazonian-style buildings with [[ceramic tile]]s imported from [[Italy]] and [[Portugal]], and its unique, French architecture called [[Casa de Fierro]] built by [[Gustave Eiffel]], who built the original house in [[Paris]] for an exhibition of 1878.<ref name=Biopark>{{cite web|title=Gateway to the Peruvian Amazon|url=http://www.biopark.org/peru/iquitos2.html|work=Biopark|accessdate=8 August 2012}}</ref><ref name="Sobre Perú">{{cite web|last=Maritza|first=Cárdenas|title=Una mirada a la arquitectura de Iquitos|url=http://sobre-peru.com/2009/07/15/una-mirada-a-la-arquitectura-de-iquitos/|work=Sobre Perú|accessdate=8 August 2012}}</ref> However, the structure is not the only European urban appeal: the city is also characterized by the rustic architecture or conventional as the [[Stilt house|palafitte]], [[maloca]]s and [[Hut (dwelling)|hut]]s that are located primarily in the areas of the city.<ref name=Joaquin-arquitectura>{{cite web|last=Joaquin|first=García Sánchez|title=Desarrollo histórico de la arquitectura regional en Iquitos|url=http://www.buenastareas.com/ensayos/Desarrollo-Hist%C3%B3rico-De-La-Arquitectura-Regional/165518.html|work=Buenas Tareas|accessdate=8 August 2012}} To read the essay you need to register.</ref>

Historically, the first native inhabitants of the settlements built their houses of sticks and leaves and other natural resources, which were tailored to protect the [[climate]], wildlife and other hazards.<ref name=Joaquin-arquitectura /> The styles of housing in those settlements up the huts and cocameras, used as a large communal houses. Other peculiar conventional architectures are characterized by firmness and isothermal conditions; they are categorized into three types of home: [[quincha]] —built with posts and [[Arundo donax|giant cane]]—, [[rammed earth]] —resistant and isothermal—, and [[adobe]] —irm with the same isothermal condition.<ref name=Joaquin-arquitectura /><ref name=Asieslaselva>{{cite book|last=Villarejo|first=Avencio|title=Así es la selva|year=1979|publisher=CETA|pages=303}}</ref>

The [[rubber boom]] of the 1880s caused a severe change in the architectural face of Iquitos. Foreign and [[rubber baron]]s brought with them the influence of countries like [[Spain]], [[Portugal]], [[France]], [[Germany]], and descendants as [[Sephardim]]. Jose de Jesus Reategui and a young group built the main features of the urban city in the years of boom, including the Iglesia Matriz de Iquitos.<ref name=Joaquin-arquitectura /> In the Iquitos popular belief of the 19th century, [[iron]] was considered less humane and aesthetic, but [[Gustave Eiffel]] got the [[Casa de Fierro]] became an attraction in the city, although historically the prefabricated building was not designed to Iquitos.<ref name=Joaquin-arquitectura /> [[Baroque]] and [[Rococo]] style also influenced the architecture of Iquitos, and defense against the rain was another prominent feature given for buildings.<ref name=Joaquin-arquitectura /> About 90 buildings are declared architectural heritage of Loreto.<ref name=Joaquin-arquitectura />

== Culture and contemporary life ==
[[File:Iquitos-2012-plaza.jpg|thumb|The Plaza de Armas and the Iglesia Matriz (nearly the middle of the image) in the Downtown Iquitos.]]
[[File:Iquitos-2012.jpg|thumb|The Iglesia Matriz de Iquitos is characterized by its [[Gothic Revival architecture|Gothic Revival]] style and Swiss clock. It is considered one of the urban symbols of the city.]]
[[File:Iquitos en lluvia.jpg|220px|thumb|Accustomed rainy scene in Iquitos. In the picture the Plaza de Armas at night.]]
Iquitos has vibrant, unique, complex and diverse [[culture]], and is regarded as cultural hub that meeting the Peruvian Amazon, according to [[Lonely Planet]]. Many natives visit the city to present their dances or sell their [[craft]]s. It also brings a wealth of customs and traditions remained considerably over the years and in the Iquitos calendar, between her festivities, [[cuisine]], [[Spanish accent]] and mythology. Currently, its culture is undergoing an impetuous transition to a contemporary level  to preserve their traditions with innovative art movements.

One of the main factors of the traditional cultural energy of Iquitos is Amazonian mythology, which has a range of characters, identified by folklore in imaginary beings. Many of the legendary beings, with appearances motivated by local geography, have powers and influenced much in [[agriculture]] and [[worldview]] of Iquitos. The dance and music, a mix of [[indigenous peoples|indigenous]] and [[mestizo]] heritage are closely related to the meanings of mythology, and also with the life of the citizen and Amazonian villager.

The complex cultural life of Iquitos consists mainly of native iquiteños, [[Brazilian people|Brazilian]]s, [[Colombian people|Colombian]]s, [[Chinese people|Chinese]]s and settled [[expatriate]]s ethnicities. The term "charapa culture" generally refers to social, cultural and artistic movements of Iquitos.

Iquitos has a unique culture that is strongly felt, as the following quotes says:
{{cquote|We are in ''the city of the alteration of the senses''. [...] What is striking me is the ease with which ''iquitenses'' {{sic}} engage in conversation with tourists, with a warmth and naturalness that is rarely seen in my native place.|author=Max Palacios|source=in his blog ''Amores bizarros''.}}

{{cquote|Although I'm a veteran of several South American adventures, Iquitos appealed to me as a quirk - a jungle city seems a contradiction and this would be my first Amazon visit to include the [[Cosmopolitanism|cosmopolitan]] luxuries of a real bed and shops. I'm fascinated at the very audacity by which such a city exists, thousands of kilometres from anywhere and with no roads to get there.|author=Jade Richardson|source=in an article titled "In an urban jungle"<ref name=SMH>{{cite web|last=Richardson|first=Jade|title=In an urban jungle|url=http://www.smh.com.au/articles/2004/06/11/1086749887340.html|publisher=The Sydney Morning Herald|accessdate=26 August 2012}}</ref>}}

{{cquote|Nothing more appropriate to think of a fantastic city as a city of <<link:2>>. Iquitos is an island, surrounded by an immense and immeasurable river, an island that goes wherever you go one to be crossed with fresh water and warm, with boats and small kids, with men and boys in the sun on the beach, with [[siren]]s and [[buzzard]]s and myths. A city that faced conflicts and [[war]]s against three countries, which suffered considerable infighting and even for some months it has its own [[currency]]. Island, yes; city, yes.|author=Edwin Chavez|source=writing about the [[idiosyncratic]] essence of the city.}}

Contemporary cultural movements began in the city, such as the [[Amazonian pop art]] and Amazonian graffiti —with Pukuna 8990 being the most revolutionary graffiti movement—, Iquiteño music subgenres of [[electronica music|electronica]], [[hip hop]], [[rap]], [[Heavy metal music|heavy metal]], [[French jazz]], [[Punk rock|punk]], [[psytrance]]/[[full-on]], next to tradicional Amazonian music. The Children's and Youthful Symphonic Orchestra of Iquitos is the main symphonic group in the city.

Iquitos has been [[Benchmarking|benchmark]]ed over the years in [[literature]] and [[film]]. The Peruvian writer [[Mario Vargas Llosa]] wrote his work ''[[Captain Pantoja and the Special Service]]'' inspired by the city. [[Francisco Lombardi]]'s [[Captain Pantoja and the Special Services (2000 film)|2000 film]], based on the novel by Vargas Llosa was filmed in this city. In [[Rómulo Gallegos Prize|Rómulo Gallegos-winning]] ''[[The Green House]]'' (1965) and ''[[The Dream of the Celt]]'' (2010), other novels of Mario Vargas Llosa, also part of the plot occurs in Iquitos.

=== Entertainment and arts===

Iquitos has an intense tourist movement in the [[entertainment]], which is based on specific points located throughout the city. With a growing organization of entertainment today, the city has always had groups concerned to project the Iquitos [[The arts|arts]] such as dance, music, film, painting, literature and theater.

In the [[visual arts]], the city is the birthplace of [[Amazonian pop art]] (also known wild [[naive]])<ref name=SobrePerú>{{cite web|last=Agustin|first=Marangoni|title=Pop amazónico de la ciudad de Iquitos|url=http://sobre-peru.com/2012/01/18/pop-amazonico-en-la-ciudad-de-iquitos/|work=Sobre Perú|accessdate=8 August 2012}}</ref> which is a unique, [[self-taught]], [[pop-art]] style of the city, and is notable for its "sparkling" [[chromaticism]], and makes a reference to [[hallucinogenic]] [[ayahuasca]] experiences. Originally, it is an [[mural|mural art]] that blends prominently the colorful amazonian culture, European motifs and commercial characters, which may be influenced by American [[pop art]], especially [[MTV]].

In several works of painters ''iquiteños'' (such as Christian Bendayan, Roldán Pinedo, Elena Valera, Rember Yahuarcani, Brus Rubio and Victor Churay), Amazonian pop art legacy has been a visual reference to create avant-garde works of contemporary life in the city and Amazonian culture.

The Dirección Regional de Cultura (formerly known as Instituto Nacional de Cultura del Perú), with headquarters in the city, mainly funded events and arts festivals in the city, although there are also small [[indie art|indie]] or [[Subculture|underground]] groups that conduct their own cultural events. The city has many small festivals; the highlights are [[Estamos en la Calle]], Iquitos Outfest, and other small annual events.

The city is known for having a remarkable celebration, called simply ''Carnaval''. During this festival, mainly pagan, celebrants are dedicated to wetting people with ''[[Water balloon|cabaciñas]]'' or other instrument. Many choose to be more extravagant, wetting with various substances such as paint or other object as cause for celebration. The celebration is unique each year in February. The carnival is heavily influenced by myths and rich Amazonian culture. It also celebrates the Day of San Juan, referring to [[John the Baptist]] as patron saint in the Peruvian Amazon, whose feast is celebrated on June 24. The main element is the juane and other own dances as shunto jump.

==== Cinema ====
[[File:Iquitos Casa de Hierro01.jpg|thumb|220px|The first film projection was presented with an [[Thomas Edison|Edison]] machine at [[Casa de Fierro]], 1900.<ref name="Joaquín García" />]]
{{Main|Cinema of Iquitos}}
Iquitos has a major [[Filmmaking|cinematic]] history, which originated from the arrival of foreign families during the [[rubber boom]] in the early 20th century. A group of people brought [[technology]], including projectors of the [[Lumiere Brothers|Lumiere brothers]].<ref name="Raul Herrera Soria">{{cite web|last=Herrera Soria|first=Raul|title=IQUITOS UNA DE LAS PRIMERAS CIUDADES QUE HIZO CINE EN EL PERÚ|url=http://amazoniaperu.blogspot.com/2008/01/iquitos-una-de-las-primeras-ciudades.html|work=Amazónico del Perú|accessdate=23 May 2012}}</ref><ref name="Francisco Bardales 2">{{cite web|last=Bardales|first=Francisco|title=Cronológica historia del cine en Iquitos|url=http://pakobardales.blogspot.com/2007/02/cronologa-histrica-del-cine-en-iquitos.html|accessdate=23 May 2012}}</ref><ref name="Les Langues Néo-Latines">{{cite book|last=García Sánchez|first=Joaquín|title=Les Langues Néo-Latines|year=2006|publisher=Société des Langues Néo-Latines|location=Association des Enseignants de sLangues Vivantes Romanes|pages=32–45}}</ref> The most important pioneer of cinema in Iquitos and the Loreto Region is [[Antonio Wong Rengifo]]; alongside this, other filmmakers such as [[Werner Herzog]], [[Armando Robles Godoy]], Nora Izcue, Federico García, and Dorian Fernández-Moris prolonged the cinematic presence in the city. Iquitos was and is used as a [[Scene (film)|cultural scene]], reference, and shelter for many filmmakers.<ref name="Joaquín García">{{cite web|last=García|first=Joaquín|title=RASGOS HISTÓRICOS DEL CINE EN IQUITOS Y EN LA REGIÓN AMAZÓNICA DEL PERU DESDE LOS ORIGENES HASTA 1990|url=http://www.ceta.org.pe/cine.htm|work=CETA|accessdate=23 May 2012}}</ref>

[[Cinema of Iquitos#List of films|Major films filmed in Iquitos]] and its surroundings are:<ref name="Joaquín García" /> ''Frente del Putumayo'' (1932) and ''Bajo el sol de Loreto'' (1936) by [[Antonio Wong Rengifo]]; ''[[No Stars in the Jungle]]'' (1966) and ''[[The Green Wall]]'' (1969) by [[Armando Robles Godoy]]; ''[[Aguirre, the Wrath of God]]'' (1972) and ''[[Fitzcarraldo]]'' (1982) by Werner Herzog; ''Informe sobre los shipibos'' (1974), ''Los hombres del Ucayali'' and [[Captain Pantoja and the Special Services (2000 film)|Captain Pantoja and the Special Services]] (2000) by [[Francisco Lombardi]], and ''[[General Cemetery]]'' (2012) by Dorián Fernández-Moris.<ref name=Cinencuentro1878>{{cite news|title="Cementerio general": filman película en Iquitos, con Marisol Aguirre, Nikko Ponce y Leslie Shaw|url=http://www.cinencuentro.com/2012/01/13/cementerio-general-filme-pelicula-peru-iquitos-marisol-aguirre-nikko-ponce-leslie-shaw/|accessdate=23 May 2012|newspaper=Cinencuentro}}</ref>

Despite having a long filmography, the film industry promoted the city is not too hard in his only commercial [[film theater]]. However, there is cultural and ''[[underground film|underground]]'' groups concerned with projecting films at [[festival]]s or private [[cinematheque]] as a way of cultural development. There is also small groups of self-taught filmmakers who record their own stories. The [[film genre]]s with more presence are [[Documentary film|documentary]], [[Nature documentary|nature]], [[Drama film|drama]], [[Art film|art house]] and, recently, [[Horror film|horror]] and [[Found footage (genre)|found footage]] in ''General Cemetery''. At first, with Wong Rengifo, was shot [[Slice of life|slice-of-life]]/documentary films<ref name="Joaquín García" /><ref name="Francisco Bardales 2" /><ref name=Cinencuentro1878 />

=== Tourism ===
[[File:Viñeta gemela de Iquitos.jpg|thumb|200px|left|From top to bottom: Lower area of [[Belén District, Maynas|Belen District]], Iquitos, and signature Amazonian horizon surrounding the city.]]
Tourism is one of the most vital industries in Iquitos, which has a growing reputation as a [[honeypot (geography)|honeypot]] due to its location on the banks of the [[Amazon River]], one of the [[New Seven Wonders of Nature|seven natural wonders of the world]]. Through the years, Iquitos receives a considerable amount of foreigners; the tourist index grew by international flights offered by the city's airport. Tourism in the city formed into European-style architecture, cuisine, drinks, art, culture, worldview, Spanish accent and historical references of Loreto. Iquitos has adequate infrastructure to accommodate tourists from all levels. It has a 5-star hotel, many of 3-, 2-, and 1-star rating.

The major tourist attractions include Barrio de Belén, Plaza de Armas, [[Casa de Fierro]], Ex Hotel Palace, Iglesia Matriz de Iquitos, Allpahuayo Mishana; Embarcadero Bellavista-Nanay, ethnic communities located around the city, Quistococha Resort and Zoo; Mercado Artesanal of San Juan. [[Iperu, tourist information and assistance|iperú]] is the leading tourist guide service that is offered to tourists at the airport and the city center of the city.

The city is also home to unique tourist companies as Maniti Camp Expeditions, Otorongo Expeditions,<ref name=Somos>{{cite journal|title=l otro lado de la selva|journal=Somos|date=12 December 2009|issue=1201|pages=41–44|accessdate=26 August 2012}}</ref> Amazon Golf Course,<ref name=Time>{{cite news|last=Chauvin|first=Lucien|title=Amazon Golf: Where Water Hazard Means Piranhas|url=http://www.time.com/time/world/article/0,8599,2009417,00.html|accessdate=26 August 2012|newspaper=[[Time (magazine)|Time]]|date=15 August 2010}}</ref> and Project Amazonas (dedicated to research and conservation). Special experiences outside the key tourist areas of the city include the Camiri —a floating hotel—, the Isla de los Monos, the Pilpintuwasi [[butterfly zoo]], Iquitos-Zungarococha Corrientillos-King Kong-Nina Rumi circuit, and adjoining districts such as Mazán, Indiana and Bellavista

In 2010, Iquitos received about 150 thousand tourists.<ref>{{cite news|title=Iquitos en la red (cifras)|url=http://diariolaregion.com/web/2010/11/04/iquitos-en-la-red-cifras/|accessdate=26 August 2012|newspaper=La Región|date=4 de noviembre de 2010}}</ref> The following year, in 2011, the index fell to 46,000 tourist foreigners, which expects 10% rise rapidly in 2013 with international flights opened in July 2012 and the Amazon River as a natural wonder.<ref>{{cite news|title=Iquitos recibirá 10% más de turistas gracias a conexión aérea con Panamá|url=http://elcomercio.pe/turismo/1439375/noticia-iquitos-recibira-10-mas-turistas-extranjeros-gracias-conexion-aerea-panama|accessdate=26 August 2012|newspaper=El Comercio|date=12 July 2012}}</ref>

[[Ayahuasca]] is known as a major cultural landmark, and [[Mysticism|mystic]] tourism has increased in Iquitos in recent years. The drink, made from the vine ''[[Banisteriopsis caapi]]'', is investigated by the Western people with a medicinal purpose and study, and was named the nation's cultural heritage.

=== Amazon commemorative capital ===
Iquitos is home to the 120-kg, [[bronze]] [[commemorative plaque]] of the [[Amazon River]] [[Amazon Basin|basin]] as one of the [[New Seven Wonders of Nature|seven natural wonders of the world]], which was granted on August 13, 2012 by Fernand Weber, founder of [[New7Wonders of Nature|New7Wonders]]. The distinction is shared with [[Bolivia]], [[Brazil]], [[Ecuador]], [[Suriname]], [[Colombia]], [[Venezuela]] and [[French Guiana]], however, recognition was given to Peru which originally ran for the Amazon through the Regional Government of Loreto based in Iquitos.

The awards show was held in Iquitos.<ref name="Global Voices">{{cite news|last=García Calderón|first=Gabriela|title=Peru: Amazon Officially Inaugurated as Nature's Wonder|url=http://globalvoicesonline.org/2012/08/16/peru-amazon-officially-inaugurated-as-natures-wonder/|accessdate=26 August 2012|newspaper=Global Voices|date=16 August 2012}}</ref> It began with a massive parade along Avenida Quiñonez, and eventually culminated in the main day, August 13, divided into two sessions throughout the day: the first in the confluence of the Itaya and [[Nanay river|Nanay]] in the afternoon, and the second on July 28 Square of the city at night. The event received intense international attention. Similar to [[Machu Picchu]] as a [[Seven Wonders of the World|wonder of the world]], Iquitos, as the main entrance to the Amazon, expects great tourist revenue.

The [[President of Peru]] [[Ollanta Humala]], next to the First Lady Nadine Heredia and Loreto Regional President Ivan Vasquez received the award. Jean Paul de la Fuente, New7Wonders foundation director, said positively on the image of Iquitos:

{{cquote|Clearly there will be economic and tourism impacts. The examples we have of other places are growths of 10, 20 and 30 percent annually|author=Jean Paul de la Fuente}}

However, despite the great satisfaction, the award caused polarized reactions indicating that the Regional Government of Loreto would be on duty to plan better [[urban development]] in Iquitos for the forecasted intense tourism.<ref name="Global Voices" /> The negative scrutiny aimed at disorganized and massive [[Sewerage|Sewer]] construction was damaging the city streets, causing discomfort and accidents in traffic and littering the aesthetic image of Iquitos. Several ''iquiteños'' citizens criticized about it via [[Twitter]].<ref name="Global Voices" />

=== Spanish accent ===
Iquitos is also attractive for its [[Amazonic Spanish]], a [[dialect]] of [[Spanish language|Spanish]] spoken in the Amazon. The dialect is most noticeable in speech than in writing, such as [f] and [x] are [[allophone]]s, (e.g., Juana is pronounced /fana/), especially when it is next to one or semivowel. (''Los fríos de San Juan''; ''Los fríos de San Fän''), the double preposing and possessive genitive (De Antonio sus amigos; From Antonio his friends), and the preemption of [[Article (grammar)|article]]s against the names (''Juana'', ''Lä Fuana''). There are also other languages spoken as [[Iquito language|Iquito]], [[Yagua language|Yagua]], ese eja or other native languages in Loreto, and foreign languages like English and French because of increasing globalization.

=== Cuisine ===
[[File:Juane.jpg|thumb|150px|left|[[Juane]], a typical dish the Peruvian Amazon.]] [[Juane]] is one of the main dishes of cuisine of the Peruvian jungle. It is widely consumed during the Catholic [[Feast of San Juan]] (St. John), held on 24 June each year. The dish was named in honor of San Juan Bautista. The dish could have a [[pre-Columbian]] origin. With the arrival of the Spanish, missionaries popularized the Biblical story of [[Salome]], [[John the Baptist|John]], and [[Herodias]]. Some believe the dish's name comes from the reference to the head of San Juan.

[[File:Tacacho con cecina y chorizo (Lima).JPG|thumb|150px|right|[[Mofongo|Tacacho]] with [[chorizo]].]] Another popular dish is [[Tacacho]], made from fried slices of plaintain mashed with [[chicharon]]es (fried pork fat). It is usually accompanied with [[chorizo]] (fried sausage) making it a savory combination. The dish is typical of Iquitos as well as the Peruvian Amazon. It is widespread in the rest of the country. The term ''tacacho'' derives from the [[Quechua languages|Quechua]] term, ''taka chu'', which means beaten. Tacacho consumption varies depending on the region where it is made. In Madre de Dios and San Martín, many people eat tacachos for breakfast, while in other regions, it is a dish served at lunch or dinner. In the San Martín region, tacacho is included in the Christmas dinner. In the Amazon region of Ecuador, the dish is known as ''bolon''. It has a counterpart in the [[Caribbean islands]], where it is called ''mofongo''.

== Sport ==
[[File:Estadio Max Augustín.jpg|right|thumb|Max Agustin Stadium]]
[[Colegio Nacional de Iquitos]] is a football team based in Iquitos. In 2005 the city's football community received the [[FIFA Fair Play Award]] as a result of being one of the five host cities for the [[2005 FIFA U-17 World Championship]].

==Twin towns==
*{{flagicon|BRA}} [[Manaus]], Brazil
*{{flagicon|Colombia}} [[Leticia, Colombia]]

==In popular culture==
* The movie ''[[Fitzcarraldo]]'' (1982) was filmed near Iquitos. The film was inspired by the real life rubber baron [[Carlos Fitzcarrald]].

== Notable people from Iquitos ==
* [[Clotilde Arias]], State Department authorized translation of the Star Spangled Banner presently exhibited at the Smithsonian Institute National Museum of American History (1901–1959)
* [[César Calvo de Araujo]], writer and painter, born in [[Yurimaguas]] near Iquitos (1910–1970).
* [[Carlos Fitzcarrald]], entrepreneur and rubber baron active in Iquitos (1862–1897).
* [[Ofelia Montesco]], actress renowned for work in [[Cinema of Mexico|Mexican cinema]] (1936–1983).
* [[Nicole Faveron]], [[Miss Universe 2012]] Finalist

== See also ==
* [[Iperu, tourist information and assistance]]
* [[Tourism in Peru]]
* [[Punchana]]
* [[Loreto Region]]
* [[Peruvian Amazon]]
* [[Rainforest]]
* [http://www.inside-peru.com/iquitos-peru.html Iquitos Insight]

==References==
{{reflist|2}}

== External links ==
* District of Belén: http://allpahuayomishana.net/english/actividad-social/belen/
* [http://amazonperutravel.blogspot.com/ Peruvian Amazon Travel Advisor] Iquitos tourist information (English)
* [http://amazon-explorer.blogspot.com/search/label/matses] Information about Matses indigenous tribe (English)
* [http://www.iiap.org.pe/principal.htm El Instituto de Investigaciones de la Amazonía Peruana (IIAP)] (Spanish)
* [http://www.unapiquitos.edu.pe/index.htm Universidad Nacional de la Amazonia Peruana] (Spanish)
* [http://www.nytimes.com/2009/06/22/world/americas/22peru.html NY Times article: Jews of Iquitos]
* [http://www.careynash.com/2011/04/22/peru-two-weeks-in-photos-south-america-photography-photography-peru-peru-fine-art/ Photos and Video of Iquitos and Peru from Canadian Photographer Carey Nash]
* [http://www.munimaynas.gob.pe Municipalidad Provincial de Maynas] - Maynas provincial municipality official website (Spanish)
* [http://www.ikitos.com ikitos.com - La Comunidad Virtual de Iquitos, Perú] Service and information website for and about Iquitos, with extensive tourism pages (Spanish and English)
*[http://www.otorongoexpeditions.com] Responsible tourism operator, Iquitos, Peru
* [http://www.ikitos.com/acobia-dwazoo ACOBIA-DWAzoo] Amazon Manatee Rescue Center, Iquitos, Peru
* [http://www.manitiexpeditions.com] Maniti Camp Expeditions - Licensed Tour Operator, Iquitos, Peru
* [http://www.iquitostimes.com - The Iquitos Times] English language monthly newspaper and website for Ex-pats living in Iquitos, Peru]
{{Large cities of Peru}}

[[Category:Populated places in the Loreto Region]]
[[Category:Populated places established in 1764]]
[[Category:Populated places on the Amazon]]
[[Category:Cities in Peru]]

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