In Aymara “type of pasture land”.
Poconchile is a small village located 37km east of Arica. It developed from a pre-Inca farm settlement on the bank of the Lluta River, surrounded by wide alfalfa fields. Originally, its purpose was twofold: It served as a place of rest for travelers along the route to the Altiplano and at the same time was used a storage place for works on the railway tracks leading to Bolivia.
The main attraction of the village is its church San Geronimo, one of the oldest one in the region. Historical documents registered its construction in the 18th century. Until today, it has been restored several times due to damages caused by earthquakes which frequently occur in this region of Chile. The church is mainly made out of adobe and other materials like leftover Oregon pine wood that was taken from the port where it served as ballast. The last restoration took place in the year 2005. As one of the oldest churches in the region, it was declared National Monument. Especially particular are the two bell towers that dominate the building front. Inside, you can find a small staircase that provides access to the upper part of the church. The church square is decorated with local tree species and offers a beautiful panoramic view over the Lluta Valley. Around it, old machinery used for corn production and harvest is displayed. The valley still produces white corn and Lluteño corn, which is rather sweet, and sells it under a certified origin seal since 2015.