Andacollo, Mining commune in Elqui Province, Chile.
Andacollo is a mining commune in Elqui Province situated at about 1000 meters elevation on the slopes of the Andes in northern Chile. The settlement centers around a large basilica and spreads across hillsides surrounded by copper mining operations and rocky terrain.
The town originated in the late 1800s as a mining settlement that built upon a much older tradition of copper extraction in the region. What began as organized extraction activity transformed into a permanent community with its own services and institutions.
The Basilica here holds a revered statue of the Black Madonna that has been central to local religious gatherings for generations. During celebrations, you see processions and gatherings that reflect the spiritual traditions of the community.
You can reach the town via regional roads that connect to nearby cities like Vicuña and Ovalle, making it accessible by car or regional transport. Basic services, accommodations, and dining options are available in the main areas, though offerings are modest and geared toward local needs.
A nearby observatory takes advantage of the remarkably clear air and high elevation to conduct astronomical observations, making this location valuable for studying the night sky. The clean atmospheric conditions mean visitors can see stars and celestial events with exceptional clarity.
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