Humahuaca

About

While the Quebrada de Humahuaca valley has been inhabited for over 10,000 years, the town of Humahuaca itself was founded by the Spanish in the late 16th century. At the time, it was one of the most important settlements in the region, serving as a commercial center for precious metals. This rich combination of native and colonial cultures, surrounded by the valley’s beautiful landscape, has bestowed upon Humahuaca a treasure trove of charms. Visit the main plaza at noon to see a figure of Saint Francisco Solano pop out of the adorable whitewashed church. Opposite the square, the Heroes of the Independence Monument honors the locals who fought in the National Independence War and offers a fantastic panorama of the valley. To learn more about the region’s long history, stop by the Municipal Archaeological Museum to see archaeological artifacts, including two mummies. And if you’d like to bring some culture home with you, you can find a variety of handicrafts at the Humahuaca Craftsmen Centre.