Palomo mines
Castrovirreyna Province, Huancavelica, Peru
Mina Palomo
Key Information
Do not enter mining areas without proper authorization.
The Palomo mines are likely located in Castrovirreyna Province, Huancavelica, Peru, between Julcani and San Genaro, with research suggesting a high-altitude setting in the Andes.
Minerals produced include orpiment, sphalerite, and stibnite, with orpiment and stibnite being less common and potentially of interest to enthusiasts.
The geological structure seems to involve volcanic rock with hydrothermal veins, based on evidence from nearby mining districts.
Mining history indicates the mines were active in the colonial period, closed for a time, and are now worked by small-scale miners for specimens.
Local culture is predominantly Quechua, with mining shaping the community's identity, though specific traditions are less documented.
The climate is cold and dry, with temperatures ranging from -4°C to 10°C, and the ecology features high-altitude adapted flora and fauna, an unexpected detail for enthusiasts exploring the region.
Geographic Location
The Palomo mines are situated in Castrovirreyna Province, part of the Huancavelica Region in central Peru, likely between Julcani in Angaraes Province and San Genaro in Castrovirreyna District. This places them in the southern part of the Huancavelica Region, within the Andean mountain range, at high altitudes around 3,600 meters. Nearby, the San Genaro mine is notable, and the area is accessible via dirt road #651, 12 km east of road 003A, though exact coordinates are challenging to pinpoint.
Minerals Produced
The mines are known for a variety of minerals, including orpiment, sphalerite, chalcopyrite, galena, stibnite, seligmannite, anorpiment, pararealgar, pyrite, quartz, and realgar. Among these, orpiment (arsenic trisulfide) and stibnite (antimony trisulfide) stand out as less common, potentially offering unique specimens for collectors. These minerals are found in hydrothermal veins, adding to their appeal for enthusiasts.
Geological Structure
Research suggests the Palomo mines are hosted in volcanic rock, with minerals formed in hydrothermal veins. This is inferred from studies of the nearby Huachocolpa mining district, indicating a geological setting typical of the Andean region, where volcanic activity and mineralization are prevalent.
Mining History
The mines have a long history, likely dating back to the colonial period when mining began in the 16th century, as seen with nearby Huancavelica. They were closed for a time but are now worked by Freelance miners seeking specimen material, suggesting a shift to small-scale, artisanal mining focused on collector pieces.
Local Culture and Characteristics
The area is predominantly inhabited by Quechua-speaking indigenous people, with a culture shaped by centuries of mining. While specific traditions related to the mines are less documented, the community's identity is tied to this activity, reflecting a blend of indigenous and colonial influences.
Climate and Ecology
The climate is cold and dry, with temperatures ranging from -4°C to 10°C annually, typical of high-altitude Andean regions. The ecology features sparse vegetation, including grasses and shrubs, adapted to these conditions, with potential for unique high-altitude flora and fauna, which might surprise enthusiasts exploring the area.