Matilla, Desert village in Pica, Chile

Matilla is a village in the Atacama Desert situated at 1206 meters elevation and sustained by an underground canal system. Water from the Pica aquifer keeps the settlement supplied in this arid landscape.

The settlement began in 1760 when wealthy families from Pica arrived and established vineyards using water from local streams. This initial occupation shaped the agricultural foundation that sustained the community.

The church here was built in 1887 and shows neoclassical style that shapes how the village looks today. Every June the community gathers for religious celebrations that structure the rhythm of local life.

The location sits in a high desert region and is accessible by road from Pica, with mild seasons being the best time to visit. Bring plenty of water and sun protection since the altitude and dryness here are substantial.

The Lagar de Matilla, or Lagar de Medina Hermanos, pressed grapes with a thick algarrobo trunk worked by a windlass, and the must was stored in clay jars buried partly underground to keep an even temperature. The jars were opened each 13 June for the feast of Saint Anthony. The last harvest was in 1937.