Catarpe, Archaeological settlement near San Pedro de Atacama, Chile

Catarpe is an Inca administrative center 5 km north of San Pedro de Atacama, the most important in present-day Chile by extension and number of enclosures. From here the region's pucarás were administered, especially the larger Pucará de Quitor. The San Isidro chapel, built in 1913 by Italian settler Lucas Cenzano, stands nearby.

The settlement developed between 500 and 1000 years ago as a key junction point between highland and coastal regions. This location served as a crucial hub within trade networks that moved goods and people across vast distances.

Catarpe was the Inca Empire's main administrative centre in what is now Chile, and from here the region's pucarás, above all the larger pucará de Quitor, were directed. Nearby stands the San Isidro chapel, built in 1913 by the Italian settler Lucas Cenzano and still kept by his descendants.

Catarpe lies about 5 km north of San Pedro de Atacama, reached by road from the town. The ruins stand on a protected river terrace among canyons, with no shade, so carry water and sun protection. The San Isidro chapel, built in 1913 by settler Lucas Cenzano, stands nearby.

Catarpe was the most important Inca administrative centre in what is now Chile, judged by its extent and number of enclosures. From here the region's pucarás were governed, above all the larger pucará of Quitor. Nearby stands the San Isidro chapel, built in 1913 by the Italian settler Lucas Cenzano.