The Peruvian government, deprived of its capital, moved to the city of Arequipa in the south.  In the midst of the chaotic political conditions, this government that administered five large  departments or states was really the only viable one that could constitute a stable administration, and Arequipa became recognized as the Provisional Capital of Peru.  From 1881 to 1884, the following provisional stamps were issued in Arequipa.