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Historic church · San Pedro de Atacama, Antofagasta
Iglesia de San Pedro de Atacama
Adobe church on the Plaza de Armas, with 18th-century walls and a cactus-wood roof tied with leather. It has been a Historic Monument since 1951.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Iglesia de San Pedro de Atacama
The Iglesia de San Pedro de Atacama sits on the west side of the Plaza de Armas and is one of the oldest churches in Chile. The current walls date from 1744, and the building has been repaired several times since then. In 1951 it was declared a Historic Monument.
The building is adobe, whitewashed, with a roof of algarrobo beams and cardón cactus wood, tied with strips of llama leather. The entrance door is also made of cactus wood. An adobe wall with three arched gates surrounds the courtyard.
The bell tower, separate from the nave, dates from 1964 and replaced an older wooden tower. The patron saint is San Pedro, who is celebrated in June with processions and dances.
On the same square is the Casa Incaica, pointed out as the oldest building in the village. Around it, the street Caracoles gathers craft shops, cafés and agencies.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
20 to 30 minutes, plus time for the square.
Best time
Mornings are usually quieter. On days of mass and religious celebrations, visits inside may be limited. At the end of June, the feast of San Pedro fills the square.
How to get there
It is located in the center of San Pedro, on the Plaza de Armas, a few steps from any lodging in the village.
Tip
Enter quietly and without a hat, as local custom requests. Look up at the ceiling to see the cactus wood and leather bindings.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Iglesia de San Pedro de Atacama
When was the church of San Pedro de Atacama built?
The current walls date from 1744, and the tower from 1964. The church has been a Historic Monument since 1951.
What is the roof of the San Pedro church made of?
Of algarrobo beams and wood from the cardón cactus, tied with llama leather and covered with mud.
When is the San Pedro festival?
The patron saint festival takes place at the end of June, with processions and traditional dances.