Calamarca facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Calamarca
Qala Marka
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Town
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La Fiesta in Calamarca
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 Calamarca
Location in Bolivia
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| Country |  Bolivia |
| Department | La Paz Department |
| Province | Aroma Province |
| Municipality | Calamarca Municipality |
| Population
(2012)
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| • Total | 1,417 |
| Time zone | UTC-4 (BOT) |
| Climate | ET |
Calamarca is a small town in Bolivia. Its name comes from the Aymara language, where Qala Marka means "place of stone." It is located in the La Paz Department. Calamarca is the main town of the Calamarca Municipality in Aroma Province.
This town sits on the Altiplano, which is a high plateau. It's on the east side of the main road that connects La Paz and Patacamaya. Calamarca is about 60 kilometers (about 37 miles) south of La Paz.
Calamarca is famous for its old church. This church was built in the late 1500s. Inside, it has a beautiful silver altar. The altar and other decorations are made in a fancy style called Rococo. The church also holds many old paintings from the colonial period. These paintings include a special collection of "angel gunmen" (called Ángeles arcabuceros). These unique artworks show angels holding old-fashioned guns.
What is Calamarca Like?
Calamarca is a quiet town in the highlands of Bolivia. It is known for its rich history and culture. The town is an important center for the people living in the surrounding areas.
Life in Calamarca
Most people in Calamarca work in farming. They grow crops like potatoes and quinoa. The town also has local markets where people sell their goods. Life here is often connected to traditional Aymara customs.
The Famous Church
The church in Calamarca is a very special place. It is a great example of colonial art and architecture. The detailed silver altar shows the skill of artists from long ago. The Ángeles arcabuceros paintings are also very rare. They mix European art styles with local traditions. This makes them unique to the region.
Why are the Paintings Special?
The Ángeles arcabuceros paintings are important because they show a blend of cultures. Spanish artists brought their painting styles to Bolivia. Local artists then added their own ideas and beliefs. The angels in these paintings wear fancy clothes and hold guns. This was a way to show power and protection.
