San Antonio de Putina Province, Provincial capital in Puno Region, Peru.
San Antonio de Putina is a province in the Puno Region situated at roughly 3,900 meters elevation, where the Apolobamba mountain range dominates the landscape. The administrative territory includes five districts, with Putina town serving as the regional center.
Putina was established in 1595 as a settlement, existing for nearly 4 centuries before the province itself was officially created in 1989. This long history made it a key administrative point in the Andean highlands.
Quechua remains the primary language for most people living here, reflecting deep indigenous roots that shape daily community life. You will notice this heritage reflected in how locals interact and organize their activities around traditional practices.
The area sits at high altitude, so visitors should allow time to acclimate to the elevation before exploring extensively. Warm clothing is essential, especially during evenings and in the mountain zones.
The name comes from Quechua meaning hot or warm water, referring to natural thermal springs that bubble up from underground in the region. These geothermal features remain part of the local identity today.
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