A treasure trove of Renaissance art guarded by a small community in Titicaca.
Ancoraimes carefully preserves its beautiful parish church, which testifies to the history and daily life of the community. The town of Ancoraimes, 37 km from La Paz, was once a very important distribution centre for the entire region. Now Ancoraimes is home to a quiet community and preserves a magnificent example of Spanish colonial architecture: the parish church dedicated to the Apostle James, or Santiago as he is known, one of the major attractions in the area. The church of Ancoraimes, built the 16th century, is one of the first examples of Christian architecture in the highlands of La Paz. At the heart of the Ancoraimes community, the church was erected in the town's main square using simple everyday materials like stone and adobe.
The main portal, a unique semi-circular brick arch in the Renaissance style, welcomes visitors and worshippers at the entrance, while the proud stone bell tower topped by the cross is ready to mark the key moments of the day with the tolling of its two bells.
The interior of the church has very simple lines, with a single nave and a pitched roof. The most outstanding features are the wooden pulpit, with its pompous Baroque forms, and the altarpiece attributed to the Spanish sculptor Gomez Hernández Galván. Together with his brother Andrés, this woodcarver arrived in America in around 1573, leaving traces of his craftsmanship throughout the former Viceroyalty. His works can be seen in important cities, such as Chuquisaca, Sucre, Cuzco, but also in this small charming town church. The slender stylised figures of the apostles and of Franciscan saints reflect the Mannerist style of Hernández Galván, mystical and evocative of a sincere religiosity.
Don't miss the opportunity to get to know the community of Ancoraimes and this jewel of colonial architecture that captivates with its refined simplicity.
Additional Info
It is recommended to wear warm clothing for windy weather conditions, comfortable footprint shoes, cap, hat, sunglasses and to carry a camera.
Where
Ancoraimes Municipality, department of La Paz.
Transportation
By private transport
From La Paz you get to Achacachi by National Route 2; Continue on Highway 16 to Ancoraimes. The duration of the trip is approximately 3 hours.
By public transport
There is no public transportation available.
Visiting Rules
To preserve local population health and yours, respect all biosecurity protocols and codes of conduct before and during your stay: bring masks and hand sanitizer, as well as a first aid kit, with sunscreen and medicines for altitude sickness.
During your stay always protect the cultural and natural heritage of the region.