Ayquina facts for kids
Ayquina (sometimes spelled Aiquina) is a small village in Chile. It is located in the El Loa Province, which is part of Chile's Antofagasta Region. Ayquina sits high up in the mountains, about 2,980 meters (9,777 feet) above sea level. It is found on the northern side of the Salado River Canyon.
The village is famous for its big religious celebration, the Festival of Our Lady of Guadalupe of Ayquina. This festival is very important to the people living in the area.
What Makes Ayquina Special?
Ayquina has a unique look because much of its buildings show a style from before Christopher Columbus arrived in the Americas. Many houses have roofs made of thatch (dried plant material) and walls built from rough limestone rocks. This gives the village a very old and traditional feel.
Nature and Culture Around Ayquina
The Cerro Paniri mountain, which is a type of volcano, is very important to the local people. It plays a big role in their culture and beliefs. Near the village, along the Salado River Canyon, you can also see old agricultural terraces. These are like steps built into the hillside for farming, covering an area of about 0.1 square kilometers (0.04 square miles).
Ayquina on the World Stage
On September 1, 1998, Ayquina, along with a nearby village called Toconce, was recognized by UNESCO. They were added to UNESCO's Tentative List for World Heritage Sites. This means they are considered to have special cultural importance that might be recognized globally in the future.
