6 Best Sights in Huancavelica, The Central Highlands

Mines of Santa Bárbara

Fodor's choice
This ghostly abandoned mine dates from 1563, when the discovery of mercury in the hills south of Huancavelica turned the region into a key cog in Spain's precious-metals machine. It closed in 1786, after one of the mine shafts collapsed, killing 200 workers. If you make the two-hour trek from town, you can see what remains of the former mining village, complete with church and school. The mine itself, however, is sealed off due to the poisonous gases still present inside. You can also pay a taxi driver S/60 to take you and wait as you explore. The mine is tentatively slated to become a UNESCO World Heritage Site, so to get the jump on the crowds, go now.

Feria Dominical

The Sunday market (feria dominical) attracts artists and shoppers from all the nearby mountain towns. It's a good place to browse for local crafts—although you'll get better quality (and sometimes better prices) in the villages.

Iglesia de San Francisco

Begun in 1673, the Iglesia de San Francisco took nearly a century to complete. The dual white towers and red stone doorway—carved with regional motifs—make the church one of the most attractive buildings in town.

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Instituto Nacional de Cultura

The best place for contacts on local culture in Huancavelica is the Instituto Nacional de Cultura, which offers language, music, and dance lessons; cultural talks; a library; and details on historical sights and regional history. There's also a small museum.

Piscina de Aguas Termales de San Cristóbal

Locals believe that these hot-spring mineral baths, found in the tree-covered slopes north of town, have healing powers. Hundreds of pilgrims come from the surrounding villages during holy days.

Sights Hot Spring
Av. 28 de Abril, San Cristóbal, Huancavelica, Huancavelica, Peru
067-753–222
Sights Details
S/5 private room, S/2 public area

Plaza de Armas

Huancavelica's main gathering place showcases wonderful colonial architecture. Across from the plaza is the restored 17th-century cathedral, which contains a silver-plated altar.