Жужуй

Religious Sites in Jujuy

Jujuy’s religious landscape is defined by its 17th and 18th-century colonial churches, many of which are National Historic Monuments. Built from adobe, mud, and cardón (cactus) wood, these structures illustrate the syncretism between Spanish Catholicism and Andean traditions. The collection spans from the ornate gold-leaf interiors of the lowlands to the humble, leather-bound chapels of the high-altitude Puna, alongside sacred shrines dedicated to the Pachamama.

IGLESIA SANTA ROSA - PURMAMARCA

A 17th-century National Historic Monument featuring thick adobe walls and a roof constructed from cardón (cactus) wood. The interior houses paintings from the Cuzco School.

Catedral Basílica Santísimo Salvador

This 18th-century cathedral is home to a notable gold-leaf pulpit, considered one of the finest examples of Spanish-American Baroque woodcarving created by indigenous artisans.

Iglesia de La Asunción

Known as the Cathedral of the Puna, this large 18th-century church is famous for hosting the annual Toreo de la Vincha, a non-bloody bullfight honoring the Virgin Mary.

Capilla de Nuestra Sra. de Rosario

Built in 1598, this is one of the oldest churches in Argentina. It features mud-plastered walls and structural beams secured with llama leather strips instead of nails.

Iglesia de Nuestra Señora del Rosario y San Francisco

A 17th-century architectural gem in Yavi, known for its gold-leaf altars and unique windows made of translucent onyx slabs that filter light into the nave.

Iglesia de Cusi Cusi

A simple, whitewashed adobe church located in the remote Puna highlands, reflecting the traditional building styles of the high-altitude Andean villages.

Iglesia de la Virgen de la Candelaria

An 18th-century colonial church that serves as a central point for the massive pilgrimage to the Virgin of Punta Corral. It contains historic paintings and silverwork.

Iglesia "Nuestra Sra. de Las Nieves"

Located in the village of El Moreno near the Salinas Grandes, this chapel is built from local stone and adobe, serving a small high-altitude community.

Iglesia de San José

A historic chapel in the highlands showcasing the minimalist religious architecture typical of the Jujuy mountains, utilizing local earth and cactus wood.

Pachamama

A sacred site or apacheta dedicated to Mother Earth, where travelers and locals perform rituals and leave offerings of coca leaves, food, and drink.