Andacollo is a commune in Chile located in the Elqui Province (Coquimbo Region), world-renowned for its rich gold and copper mining heritage, its clear skies ideal for astrotourism, and its fervent devotion to Our Lady of the Rosary.

🏛️ Religious and Faith Heritage
The heart of the city is defined by its spirituality and by hosting one of the oldest and largest Catholic festivals on the continent:

Basilica of Andacollo (Big Church): An imposing and historic structure of wood and metal sheets located opposite Plaza Videla. It houses the venerated image of the Virgin.

Small Church: Originally erected in 1772, it represents the traditional and foundational space of Andacollo's faith.

Andacollo Connected
Big Festival of the Virgin: Celebrated annually from December 23 to 27. It attracts around 200,000 pilgrims with traditional Chinese dances, turbans, and religious chants. It also has a smaller version, the "Fiesta Chica," on the first Sunday of October.

🌌 Astrotourism and Clear Skies
Nestled high in the mountains of Norte Chico, it offers privileged conditions for observing the cosmos:

Collowara Tourist Observatory: Located on the summit of Cerro Churqui. It offers guided tours and observations with high-end telescopes by prior reservation.

Machukuna Astronomical Observatory Center: An excellent option that combines astrotourism with insights into local identity.

Pilgrim's Route: An ancient trail that has received the international Starlight distinction for the astonishing purity and darkness of its night skies.

Cielos de Chile Foundation
⚒️ Mining Tradition
The name Andacollo comes from the Quechua Anta-Coya ("Copper-Queen" or "Queen of Metal"). The culture of the commune is directly linked to the pirquineros (artisanal miners):