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Presencias Tutelares: Guardians of the Desert

Monumental desert sculptures commemorating Arica's ancient cultures, offering a unique artistic and cultural experience.

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Presencias Tutelares are monumental sculptures located 27 km south of Arica, Chile, in the Pampa de Acha. Created by artist Juan Díaz Fleming in 1997, these striking figures commemorate the region's early cultures and offer a unique blend of art and desert landscape.

A brief summary to Presencias Tutelares

  • Guillermo Sánchez 600, Arica, Arica y Parinacota, CL
  • +56958450505

Local tips

  • Visit during sunrise or sunset for the most dramatic lighting and photographic opportunities.
  • Remember to bring water and sun protection, as the desert environment can be harsh.
  • Take all trash with you to help preserve the natural environment.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Arica, take the Panamericana Norte (Route 5) south. After approximately 27 kilometers, look for the intersection with Route A-31. The sculptures will be visible from the highway. There is no admission fee to visit the site. Parking is available on-site free of charge.

  • Public Transport

    Take a local bus from Arica towards the south. Check with the driver to ensure the bus passes by the intersection of the Panamericana Norte and Route A-31. The bus fare is approximately 1000 CLP. From the intersection, it's a short walk to the sculptures.

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Discover more about Presencias Tutelares

Presencias Tutelares, meaning 'Guardian Presences,' is a captivating sculptural ensemble erected in the stark desert landscape near Arica. Chilean artist Juan Díaz Fleming created these imposing figures, which were inaugurated in 1997, as a tribute to the ancient cultures that first inhabited this region. The sculptures are positioned at the intersection of the Panamericana Norte and Route A-31, approximately 27 kilometers south of Arica, making them a striking landmark in the Pampa de Acha. The ensemble comprises two main elements: a hemispherical structure adorned with an engraved spiral, known as 'The Ancestors,' and two vertical figures called 'The Origin of the Line,' which abstractly represent the human form. The artist received funding from the National Fondart of the National Council for Culture and the Arts in 1996. The structures' size, color, and design ensure they capture the attention of travelers, inviting contemplation and appreciation of art within the vast desert setting. During sunrise and sunset, the sculptures gain a special luminosity, enhancing their visual impact and creating memorable photographic opportunities. Visitors are encouraged to respect the natural and cultural environment by taking all trash with them and avoiding disrespectful behavior, such as climbing on the sculptures. The site offers a tranquil and mystical atmosphere, inviting reflection on the history and culture of the Aymara people.

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