Spiritual Places in South America
There is an interesting blend of ancient Amerindian, Incan and Spanish Catholicism throughout much of South America. Visitors will find plenty of inspiration in powerful Inca sites like Lake Titicaca and Jesuit ruins such as those in Córdoba.
Jesuit Missions of Chiquitos, Bolivia: This group of six Jesuit missions best represents the fusion of local beliefs with Catholic ideas. Built during the 16th century to reeducate the Indians, they remain a striking architectural example of the passion that went into converting native people.
Christ the Redeemer, Brazil: Standing 40m (130 feet) tall overlooking the city of Rio de Janiero, this statue of Christ is one of the most famous icons in Latin America. Visitors can climb to the hilltop base of this statue and ponder the beauty and chaos of the city below.
Lake Titicaca, Bolivia: Legends surround this deep sacred lake high in the Andes mountains. Inca culture was born in Lake Titicaca, as the children of the sun stepped from its waters onto Sun Island that is still there today. The pervasive air of calm and tranquility is ideal for contemplating our place in the cosmos.
Ingapirca, Ecuador: The most impressive surviving Inca ruin in Ecuador is a superlative example of this culture’s expertise in masonry and stone building. The site of Ingapirca was sacred to the Inca and the Cañari before them, and it’s easy to sense the power of this ceremonial place.
Machu Picchu, Peru: Among this superlative Inca city, the Temple of the Sun stands out as extraordinary. The stone at the heart of this temple is perfectly aligned to catch the sun on the winter solstice, proving their knowledge of celestial matters. But on any sunny day, the cave below this temple lights up in wondrous ways.
Jesuit ruins of Córdoba, Argentina: A rare example of voluntary co-operation between European missionaries and the indigenous people of Argentina can be seen in this center of learning and arts. The beautiful colonial architecture and picturesque location in the foothills certainly create a peaceful environment.
Churches of Chiloe, Chile: The amazing Germanic churches of Chiloe Island represent a fusion of indigenous and European beliefs that are unlike anything else in South America. The 17th-century churches are largely responsible for the timeless atmosphere that pervades this special island.
San Agustin Archeological Park, Colombia: This impressive park in Colombia contains the largest collection of ancient religious sculptures and carvings in South America. They were created by a lost Andean culture between the 1st and 8th centuries, depicting mythical animals and gods that remain a mystery.
Pisac Ruins, Peru: Some of the most stirring Inca ruins in South America are located at the entrance to the Sacred Valley, just 45 minutes outside of Cusco. Its mixture of religious temples, military posts and city dwellings provides ample food for thought.
Fuerto de Samaipata, Bolivia: This archaeological site has two parts: the unbelievably carved hill dominated by rock sculptures and the residential district below. The massive carved rock hill is unique in that it depicts pre-Hispanic beliefs and traditions that have been all but lost.