Purmamarca
Jujuy
Purmamarca is a small town located in the Tumbaya Department of Jujuy Province, Argentina, renowned for its stunning natural setting at the foot of the Cerro de los Siete Colores (Hill of the Seven Colours). The town's name derives from the Aymara words "purma" (desert or uncultivated land) and "marca" (city), often interpreted as "Town of the Virgin Land." With a heritage dating back to pre-Spanish conquest times, Purmamarca preserves traditional Andean culture and architecture. Its colonial church, built in 1648 and dedicated to Saint Rose of Lima, is a National Historic Monument featuring adobe walls, cactus wood roofing, and 18th-century Cusco School paintings. The town thrives on tourism, especially after the nearby Quebrada de Humahuaca was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2003. Visitors are drawn to the vibrant handicraft market in the main plaza and nearby natural attractions such as treks along the Paseo de los Colorados, the Purmamarca River, and excursions to Salinas Grandes and the Laguna de Guayatayoc, home to pink flamingos and other wildlife. Despite its modest size, Purmamarca offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and historical significance, making it a captivating destination in Argentina's northern highlands.
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Consejo: The best time to visit Purmamarca is during the dry season to enjoy clear views of the Cerro de los Siete Colores and outdoor treks. Visitors should consider purchasing tickets for guided tours to nearby attractions like Salinas Grandes and Laguna de Guayatayoc in advance. The town offers discounts for groups and students at some tour providers. Exploring the handicraft market early in the day ensures the best selection of traditional artisan goods. The local church is open daily with morning and afternoon hours, and attending the patronal feast on August 30th offers a rich cultural experience with traditional music and ceremonies.
Datos interesantes
- •The Cerro de los Siete Colores displays distinct layers of mineral-rich soils creating vibrant natural stripes.
- •Purmamarca's church contains 18th-century paintings from the Cusco School, a renowned artistic tradition in the Andes.
- •The town's name means "Town of the Virgin Land," reflecting its untouched and uncultivated origins in the Aymara language.
- •The Quebrada de Humahuaca near Purmamarca was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2003, increasing its global recognition.
- •Local festivals, like the patronal feast of Saint Rose of Lima on August 30th, feature traditional Andean music with instruments such as sikuris and erkes.
Historia
Purmamarca has a millennial heritage, existing since before the Spanish conquest of the region.
The town's colonial church was constructed in 1648 and declared a National Historic Monument in 1941.
Historically, Purmamarca was somewhat isolated from major commercial routes until improvements such as the Capricorn Axis road enhanced connectivity.
The declaration of the Quebrada de Humahuaca as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2003 significantly boosted tourism, fostering economic growth linked to cultural preservation and natural attractions.
Guía del lugar
Church of Saint Rose of Lima1648
This colonial church, built in 1648, is a National Historic Monument featuring modest adobe architecture, a roof made from cardón cactus wood, and a narrow single nave. Inside, visitors can admire 18th-century Cusco School paintings and artistic artifacts reflecting Andean religious traditions.
Cerro de los Siete Colores (Hill of the Seven Colours)
A striking natural hill near Purmamarca famous for its colorful mineral layers creating a rainbow effect. It is a major attraction and symbol of the town, offering spectacular views and photographic opportunities.
Handicraft Market
Located in the main plaza, the market offers traditional artisan crafts made by local communities. It is a vibrant place to explore Andean culture through textiles, jewelry, and pottery, supporting the local economy.
Paseo de los Colorados
A scenic trekking route starting from Purmamarca that passes through the red-hued hills known as the Colorados. The trail allows visitors to immerse themselves in the dramatic landscape and observe local flora and fauna.
Excursions to Salinas Grandes and Laguna de Guayatayoc
Tours from Purmamarca lead to the vast salt flats of Salinas Grandes and the Laguna de Guayatayoc, a bird sanctuary with pink flamingos and wild geese. These excursions showcase the diverse ecosystems of the Argentine highlands.
