Huacalera: Archaeology, History and Inti Raymi

Huacalera brings together archaeological traces, a rich local history and a celebration associated with the Tropic of Capricorn. At La Huerta, the Inca Trail runs through an extensive archaeological site; the historic settlement developed around the old Camino Real. The chapel and the Posta de Huacalera also tell of different chapters in the town’s history. Those interested in history and Andean traditions will find several specific points of interest here for a trip.

La Huerta and the Inca Trail

Huerta de Huacalera is one of the largest archaeological sites in the Quebrada de Humahuaca. Its documented features include two plazas; the route of the Inca Trail also runs through the site. La Huerta was built on the line of today’s Tropic of Capricorn. This tropic is a symbolically significant astronomical feature in the ritual landscape of the Inca religion. In this way, archaeological history and special cosmological significance come together at this site.

For families who enjoy combining their travels with historical questions and distinctive local stories, this is a reason in its own right to consider Huacalera.

Chapel, settlement and post station

The chapel of Huacalera is one of the small chapels associated with a remarkable Hispanic-Indigenous past. It is reported that its earlier building was constructed in 1655 and later destroyed by a mudslide; the present-day chapel is said to have replaced this original building. The cautious wording matters: the reference to 1655 concerns the original structure and does not necessarily describe the present-day chapel.

The historic settlement of Huacalera arose where the Río Grande and the river of the La Huerta gorge meet. It developed around the old Camino Real. Another trace of history is the Posta de Huacalera: in 1772, the Giménez family enabled its establishment on their own estate and managed the post station for several generations. During the independence struggles, it served to supply armies and help the wounded. In 1825, one of the first patriotic schools was established there. These different roles make the post station a specific point of reference for the settlement and independence history of Huacalera.

Inti Raymi in June

Inti Raymi, also called Fiesta del Sol, is celebrated in the province of Jujuy every year in June, at the same time as the winter solstice and the beginning of the Andean New Year. During the festival, communities gather around a fire for a night vigil, keeping it alight until the first rays of sun appear. It is possible to take part in the celebration in Huacalera at the monolith marking the course of the Tropic of Capricorn.

The festival offers a different focus from the archaeological and historical themes: the emphasis is on the night vigil, the fire and the connection with the solstice. If you are particularly interested in Inti Raymi, the festival’s June dates in Jujuy are a useful reference point for planning your trip. When choosing a holiday rental in Huacalera, you can consider whether the celebration or exploring La Huerta and the town’s history will play a bigger part in your stay.

More destinations: San Salvador De Jujuy, Humahuaca, Ciudad Perico, La Quiaca, Purmamarca, Yala, Tilcara, Maimará.

For the broader travel overview: Jujuy.