Jujuy - northwest Argentina and the Puna

San Salvador is known as "La tacita de Plata" for its tiny size and its proximity to Humauaca ravine. It settled 3 times due to constant assaults by natives. In 1593 San Salvador had 45 habs, but by 1607 there were only 9 left. In the next centuries Jujuy recovered from its difficult beginnings. Many Churches were built by conquistadores following "Sevilla" architecture style (13th and 14th century). Peaceful times didn't last as in early 19th century Jujuy was the battleground for conflicts between "realistas".

(Spanish crown) and "revolucionarios" (criollos). Thus, the City of Jujuy itself is a small representation of how Argentina came into existence. Later, the State developed its economy to become one of the most important producers of tobbaco and sugar cane. The entire colonization of the northwest aimed at the explotation of minerals and precious metals and got started around the year 1480. Conquistadores arrived in the scene around 1535.

The original population was based in high altitude areas such as Tastil and the Puna and it was dominated by the Incas. Their power relied in three factors: a series of technological advancements that put them ahead of similar surrounding cultures, a powerful army and a strict social organization, a stunning set of land communications such as routes that extended throughout the empire and allowed for close contact and messeging.

Green valleys in the outskirts of San Salvador slowly turn into an arid, vast ravine known as Humauaca. Covered with houses built from dry clay, the landscape becomes astonishing. A trip to the town of humauaca crosses the phenomenal ravine through small villages like Purmamarca, whose Cathedral was built in 1648. There is a local craft market all year round and every Aug. 30th a religious ceremonies take place where natives dance "samilantes, sikuris and Misa-chicos". Structures called "Pucaras" (fortified structures) can be seen

along the way, a vivid testimony of how natives defended themselves both from Incas and Conquistadores. Pucara de Tilcara (3000 habs), one of the most important structures that remains has become a center of attraction to visitors and native argentines alike. Many archeological excavations originate from here. Once in Humauaca, visitors can have a glimpse at some old traditions still alive, like the production of witchcraft tools .

The original settlements by the natives were assimilated by the hispanics and the little historical towns that remain as a testimony are nothing but the result of the transformation that took place after the arrival of the Conquistadores. Among them are Humauaca, Tilcara and Purmamarca. As a result of the construction of "La Casa del Encomendero" the towns of Yavi, Cachi and Molinos -only populated by local indians- were born.