Parinacota church

Parinacota church is a stone and clay building constructed in Andean Baroque style, featuring exterior arches, side chapels, and a central nave. The structure is topped with a square tower, whitewashed to stand out against the mountain landscape.

The building was first constructed in the 17th century to serve as a religious center for the highland community. Extensive reconstruction work in 1789 restored it while maintaining its original character and purpose.

Indigenous artists created the interior frescoes using local techniques and pigments, blending religious iconography with Andean artistic traditions. This fusion shaped how the community experienced faith and remains visible in every painted surface today.

The building sits at high elevation and is accessible via the Panamericana Highway from Iquique or Route CH-11 from La Paz. Its location near the main road makes it a straightforward stop for travelers crossing the altiplano.

The atrium walls display clay decorated with red stone figures including bishops, lilies, and religious symbols that showcase local artisan skills. This ornamental approach differs from typical colonial highland churches and reflects a deep connection to the community.