Perou Decouverte
Perou Decouverte
Just a few kilometers from the city of Huancavelica, nestled at 3,900 meters above sea level, the Santa Bárbara mine is one of the most impressive mining remains from the colonial era in Peru. Nicknamed "la mina de la muerte" (the mine of death) due to the extreme working conditions, it bears witness to a dark but fundamental chapter in the country's economic history.
💡 Did you know? The mercury extracted at Santa Bárbara was essential for processing Potosí's silver. Without this mercury, the massive exploitation of silver would not have been possible.
The visit to the mining site generally follows a well-established itinerary, punctuated with stops rich in history:
First stop on the way to the mine, the village of Sacsamarca (or Saccsamarca) charms with its traditional stone houses with red tile roofs. The etymology of its Quechua name is debated: it could come from "Sasa marqay" (difficult to carry the stone), "Saqsamarka" (village of people with abundant and unkempt hair), or "Saksay marka" (pleasant, hospitable, and cheerful village). This village offers a first glimpse of traditional Andean architecture.
From this panoramic viewpoint, you can take in the city of Huancavelica, its different neighborhoods, the Ichu River valley (meaning "straw" in Quechua), and the imposing mountains surrounding the city. A striking first look at the local geography before diving into mining history.
This is the most important gateway of the historic Santa Bárbara mine, the main entrance to the ancient tunnel. It is a place full of symbolism, where one understands the full historical significance of the mine for the Huancavelica region. Local guides usually explain the crucial role of mercury during the colonial era here.
Not far from the entrance, you can observe the ruins of the old mercury processing plant. These vestiges bear witness to the exploitation techniques used for centuries to extract and refine azogue (mercury) destined for the silver mines of Potosí.
Continuing on, you discover the abandoned village of Santa Bárbara, a true "ghost town". The ruins of the old miners' dwellings, administrative buildings, and the main square tell the story of life in this now-silent mining complex.
Built around 1564-1630 for the mining workers, this church is located right next to the mine entrance. Its facade is a replica of the Cathedral of Huancavelica, with a Baroque-style doorway. The parish was officially founded in 1585 by Archbishop Luis Zapata Cárdenas. It represents the spiritual center of the colonial mining settlement.
The highest point in the Huancavelica region and the Chonta mountain range, Apu Huamanrazu means in Quechua "sacred falcon of the snows". Considered a sacred mountain and a protective deity by local populations, this 5,304 m high summit is a place of great spiritual importance. The high-altitude puna landscapes around the mountain offer exceptional views of the central Peruvian sierra. For the ascent, it is highly recommended to use a specialized local agency that can provide an experienced guide and handle all the logistics (equipment, transport, acclimatization). The mountain is reputed to be "jealous" by local tradition, hence the importance of being well accompanied.
🥾 For Apu Huamanrazu: Using a local agency will ensure a safe and tradition-respecting experience. They handle transport, high mountain guides, equipment, and meals.
Santa Bárbara is much more than an old mine: it is a poignant memorial site, witness to a complex colonial past and the human sacrifices behind mining wealth. Isolated and silent, it appeals to travelers curious about history as well as hiking enthusiasts off the beaten path. The church of the mining site tells the spiritual and social story of that era.
✨ Don't miss: The ghostly silhouette of the mine at sunrise, when clouds cling to the slopes and history seems suspended in the cold air of the cordillera.
⚠️ Important: Although the exterior of the site is accessible, entry to the mine is strictly prohibited for safety reasons. Be content to admire the exterior architecture, the church, and the abandoned village, silent witnesses to this page of history.
