Exploring Cordoba’s Old City

Argentina’s second city, Cordoba, boasts a truly unique character which makes it one of the most attractive cities in the country. Filled with history and warm Cordobes proud of their identity, Cordoba possesses a glorious past which curious travelers will revel in discovering as they explore the charming streets of the city. Founded in 1573, Cordoba was the most important city in Argentina in the colonial period, as well as home to the country’s first university founded by the Jesuits in the 17th century.

Beautifully set on the Rio Suquia extending over a wide and lush valley, Cordoba is a modern city which has been a center for trade since the colonial conquest in the 16th century. The real attraction of Cordoba, apart from its witty and hospitable inhabitants, is its lovely historic center filled with colonial buildings, and which has managed to retain a quaint charm despite the fast development of the city. Go on a tour of Cordoba’s old district and soak up this enrapturing atmosphere as you explore its many attractions.

Cordoba’s most interesting buildings are grouped in pedestrian areas, which allows visitors to enjoy the magnificent architecture without being disturbed by traffic and having to watch where they put their feet at all times. The older and most impressive buildings are located around the lovely Plaza San Martin, dating from 1577, and now a shaded open space filled with cafés and Jacaranda trees.

Don’t miss the former Cabildo, built in 1610, which boasts a colorful history, having served at times as a prison, courthouse or clandestine detention center during the last dictatorship. Its beautiful arches and two inner patios make it worth a visit. Nearby stands Argentina’s oldest cathedral, dating back to the 17th and 18th centuries, which features a spectacular baroque interior. Just south of the cathedral, the Carmelite convent houses Argentina’s best and most complete religious art collections.

Art buffs will delight in exploring the stunning church and convent of Santa Catalina de Siena, founded in 1613, which contains a beautiful collection of paintings from Peru and Spanish tapestries. For more contemporary art, stop at the Museo Municipal de Bellas Artes, which holds a permanent collection by celebrated Argentine artists.

Declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, the Manzana Jesuitica is definitely noteworthy, as is the Iglesia de la Compañia. One of the most famous attractions of Cordoba is of course the National University, home to one of the most valuable libraries in Argentina.

This guide to visiting Cordoba’s old district for an exciting tour to Argentina was written by an expert at Argentina For Less available to help you custom design your Argentina travel adventure.