Cerro General Belgrano, Mountain summit in La Rioja, Argentina
Cerro General Belgrano, also called Nevado de Famatina, is the highest peak of the Sierra de Famatina in La Rioja, Argentina. Its summit holds three ice-covered peaks: Blanco (or Alto), Negro and Rosillo. The highest point marks the meeting of the Chilecito, Famatina, Vinchina and General Lamadrid departments.
Gold from La Mejicana mine inside the mountain was used to mint some of Argentina's first coins in the 19th century. Control of these deposits fueled rivalry between federales and unitarios, including Facundo Quiroga and Bernardino Rivadavia. In the 20th century the peak was named after Manuel Belgrano.
The indigenous Diaguita and Capayan peoples called this mountain Wamatinaj, a name that evolved through Spanish into Famatina and remains deeply rooted in the region's identity.
The mountain requires careful planning before attempting the climb, particularly regarding weather conditions which can change rapidly. Visitors should arrive with plenty of time and respect the altitude to stay safe.
The highest of the three summits, called Blanco or Alto, is the tripoint where the departments of Chilecito, Famatina, Vinchina and General Lamadrid meet. The other two peaks are Negro and Rosillo. The summit also holds Inca high-altitude sanctuaries.
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