San Javier

The small town of San Javier was the first Jesuit mission in Chiquitos, founded in 1692 by the Spaniards Fray José de Arce and Fray Antonio Ribas. Its church, one of the most striking in the region, was designed and built by Father Schmidt between 1749 and 1752. The original wooden structure had survived more or less intact until restoration was undertaken between 1987 and 1993 by Hans Roth. Subtle designs and floral patterns cover the ceiling, walls and carved columns. One of the bas-relief paintings on the high altar depicts Martin Schmidt playing the piano for his indigenous choir. If the main door is closed, enter through the cloister to the right. The modern town prospers from extensive cattle ranching. At sunset there are beautiful skies over the church, which is suddenly floodlit at this time.

There are many fine walks in the surrounding countryside, which is also good for mountain biking. A local fiesta is held on 3 December. With help from the Swiss government, San Javier has developed a number of local rutas turísticas, which the town hopes will draw visitors.