With its buildings built mostly in white or pink volcanic rock (sillar), the historical centre of Arequipa has a distinct character resulting from natural causes and historical context. The layout of an indigenous hamlet has survived close to the Historical Centre in the district of San Lázaro. Municipal Ordinance Nº 13-99 determines the protection of the historical centre of Arequipa and creates the Municipal Management and Control Superintendence of the historical centre of Arequipa. The public areas of the historical centre of Arequipa are the property of the Peruvian Government and are managed by the Provincial Municipality of Arequipa. Managing the entire historical centre of Arequipa is the responsibility of the recently incepted Municipal Management and Control Superintendence, in coordination with the Ministry of Culture.