Plizio Visual Lab

Chapel of Casabindo

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Historical site

Weather…

The Capilla de Casabindo is located in the Jujuy province of Argentina, situated at an altitude of approximately 3,400 meters in the Puna region. The current church structure was completed in 1787 and stands as one of the most significant examples of colonial Altiplano architecture. The site is world-famous for the 'Toreo de la Vincha' festival, held every August 15th to honor the Assumption of Mary. This event is the only form of bullfighting in Argentina, where the animal is not harmed or killed; instead, participants attempt to snatch a ribbon adorned with coins from the bull's horns. The chapel's architecture features thick adobe walls and a prominent white bell tower that dominates the village square. Inside, it houses precious paintings from the Cusco School, including depictions of the 'Ángeles Arcabuceros' or harquebusier angels. Declared a National Historic Monument in 1941, the chapel remains a vital symbol of the synthesis between Andean indigenous traditions and Catholic faith.

Location: Argentina
Nearby: San Antonio de los Cobres (65 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Sep–Nov.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	9	9	8	6	2	1	1	2	5	7	9	10
Rain mm	114	107	78	28	7	2	2	3	5	27	40	100

📋 Practical info

🚪

Visiting

The Chapel of Casabindo is a historic church in the Jujuy highlands, known for its religious and cultural significance. The interior is usually accessible during services and at specific times.

🕒

Typical hours

The chapel is usually open only during service times and on feast days. It is advisable to seek local information on opening hours.

📷

Photography

Photography inside is usually allowed, but without flash to maintain the sacred atmosphere. Discretion is needed during services.

⏱️

Time needed

A visit typically takes 20 to 30 minutes as the chapel is small. More time should be allotted for travel and the surrounding landscape.

➕

Combine with

The chapel is near the Salinas Grandes and Quebrada de Humahuaca. Combining it with these natural wonders makes for an unforgettable day in Jujuy.

🧭

Getting there

The chapel is reachable by car or bus; roads in the Andes can be bumpy. From the town of Purmamarca, it's about 30 kilometers.

💡

Insider tip

Visit the chapel during the local festival of Virgen de la Candelaria in February, when the region comes alive. Acclimatize to the altitude beforehand.

Geography

Coordinates

-22.97720, -66.02110

Facts

Completion year: 1787
Elevation: 3,410 meters above sea level
Main festival: Toreo de la Vincha on August 15th
Architecture: Classic colonial adobe construction
Art: Features rare Cusco School paintings of angels
Status: Designated a National Historic Monument in 1941

Explore nearby

Notable places around

La Polvorilla Viaduct60 km · SWExplore →

La Quiaca61 km · NEExplore →

San Antonio de los Cobres65 km · SWExplore →

Ruins of Tastil68 km · WExplore →

Purmamarca69 km · NWExplore →

Church of Yavi73 km · NEExplore →

San José de Tilcara74 km · NWExplore →

Pucará de Tilcara74 km · NExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Start Destination Via (optional)

Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Chapel of Casabindo (1)

Iglesia de La Asunción📍 landmark

Known as the 'Cathedral of the Puna', the La Asunción church in Casabindo is famous for the traditional Toreo de la Vincha bullfight.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What is Capilla de Casabindo known for?

It is one of the best-known churches on the high plateau and an important colonial monument. It is also known for local festivals and traditions.

Can you visit the inside of the chapel?

Often yes, but access can depend on local hours. It is best to arrive early or ask on site.

How much time should you allow?

The chapel itself takes 30 to 45 minutes. With the village and a short break, it can become a one-hour stop.

Is Casabindo easy to reach?

It is remote in the northwest, so a car is the best option. The route is scenic, but long and slow.

What is the best time to visit?

Winter and the shoulder months are often the most pleasant. Temperatures are milder and the sky is usually clear.

Chapel of Casabindo: where is it located?

Chapel of Casabindo is located in Argentina.

Chapel of Casabindo: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Sep, Nov.

Chapel of Casabindo: why is it worth visiting?

The Capilla de Casabindo is located in the Jujuy province of Argentina, situated at an altitude of approximately 3,400 meters in the Puna region.

View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →