Lampa: The Mysterious 'Pink City'
Its Baroque Treasure and the Replica of the Pietà

Located in the Peruvian Altiplano, but further north of Puno (about 2 hours' drive), the town of Lampa is a destination of choice for architecture and history enthusiasts. It is nicknamed the "Pink City" due to the use of reddish to pinkish clay bricks and tiles that dominate the facades of its historic buildings.

🏰 The Ancient Colonial Splendor

Like Chucuito and Juli, Lampa played an important role during the viceroyalty. It was a thriving mining and agricultural center, whose wealth allowed for the construction of exceptional religious and civic buildings, now considered among the most beautiful colonial architectures in southern Peru.

🎨 A Cultural and Aesthetic Stop

Lampa offers a striking contrast to the darker cities of the Altiplano. Its unique aesthetic style and the peaceful atmosphere of its streets make it a refreshing and photogenic break on the road between Cusco and Puno, or during a dedicated excursion from Puno.

The highlight of any visit to Lampa is undoubtedly the church of Santiago Apóstol (St. James the Apostle). Built in the 17th century, it is a masterpiece of Andean Baroque architecture in red brick. Its dome, covered in blue and white tiles, is one of the most photographed in the region.

🗝️ The Museum Chapel and the Pietà

What makes this church famous internationally is what it houses: in a funeral chapel, there is an authenticated replica of Michelangelo's famous "Pietà" (the original is in Rome, at the Vatican). This sculpture arrived in Peru under mysterious circumstances, making Lampa a place of pilgrimage for art lovers.

💀 The Catacombs Crypt

Under the church lies a fascinating network of catacombs filled with skulls and bones, arranged ornamentally, a dark but culturally rich reminder of colonial funeral practices and the concept of death in the Andes. Visiting the crypt is an unforgettable experience.

🏛️ The Colonial Bridge and the Condors

In addition to the church, Lampa boasts a fine example of colonial engineering: a well-preserved stone bridge that spans the Lampa River. If you're lucky and explore the more remote areas (like the Tinajani canyon, a bit further away), Lampa is also known as a prime spot for Andean condor sightings.

👤 Tribute to Enrique Torres Belón

The town pays tribute to one of its most famous sons, Enrique Torres Belón, a Peruvian politician and engineer. Part of Lampa's cultural heritage is dedicated to him.

🚍 Logistics and Access

• Distance: Lampa is located about 75 to 80 km northwest of Puno.
• Transport: Access requires either a private taxi (negotiated for the day), a colectivo or bus from Puno to Juliaca, and then a transfer to Lampa. It's one of the most remote sites from Puno that we've detailed.
• Tip: Given the distance, a visit to Lampa is often combined with other sites in northern Puno or done as a full-day excursion.