Iglesia Matriz

South Coast


The town’s oldest church collapsed during a massive earthquake in 1868. It's front wall has been reconstructed sans bell tower and fronts the plaza; the only original wall that remains standing is the 8m stretch running along Calle Tacna. Check out the crypt beneath the glass on the right as you enter through the main gate.

In front of the church across the plaza stands an 18th-century Spanish colonial jail, with intimidating iron-grilled windows. It now houses the government culture department. Pop in the day before to arrange an appointment if you want to visit.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby South Coast attractions

1. Museo Contisuyo

0.01 MILES

Located on the site of the former cathedral, this museum funded by a multinational mining company is an excellent little repository of local…

2. Casa Posada de Teresa Podesta

0.06 MILES

At one corner of the Plaza de Armas, the Casa Posada de Teresa Podesta is a stately colonial mansion with its innards still intact. It's also known as the…

3. Catedral Santa Catalina

0.07 MILES

Have a peek inside Catedral Santa Catalina, which houses the body of 18th-century St Fortunata, whose hair and nails are said to be still growing. The…

4. Parque Cristo Blanco

0.48 MILES

A park on a cliff high above the town is dominated by the Cristo Blanco, a white statue of Christ raised in 2002. There are swinging seats, a knee…

5. Geoglifos Chen Chen

1.6 MILES

Located just 1.5km from town, these large carvings in the mountainside show a collection of llamas or alpacas and are attributed to Tiwanaku settlers who…

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