Learn about the colonial culture of the country’s oldest city, founded by Spanish colonists and still going strong after almost five centuries.
Settled on the shores of the Dulce River, Santiago del Estero is among Argentina’s largest cities. Visit this provincial capital city to see its universities, churches and museums. It is also known for an array of reputable artists, musicians and military figures.
Start enjoying the city with a drink at one of the cafés and restaurants offering live music. Listen to the intriguing sounds of chacarera and zamba folklore. Locals know the commune affectionately as the Mother of Cities, as it was the first claimed by Spanish settlers in Argentina.
In the centre rises the tower of the Casa del Gobierno, built in 1948 from an old bus station. Admire its Spanish neocolonial style, elegant white façade and charming balconies overlooking Plaza San Martin. Just a few blocks southeast is the Santiago del Estero Cathedral. Admire the imposing columns, pediment and twin towers that make up its white exterior.
The cathedral overlooks Plaza Libertad, the city’s central gathering point. It is full of floral displays and trees. Explore the boutiques and stalls in the pedestrian alleys that break off from the square. A couple of blocks east, watch a dramatic performance at the Teatro 25 de Mayo. Take the kids to nearby Plaza Sarmiento to play in a sandpit with slides and climbing frames.
The commune has a warm and dry subtropical climate, with hardly any rain in winter. Listen to some locals speaking the language of Quechua, which has survived from the time of indigenous Incas.
The city is in western Santiago del Estero province in northern Argentina, about 650 miles (1,046 kilometres) northwest of Buenos Aires. Fly into Vicecomodoro Angel de la Paz Aragones Airport, which is just northwest of the city and has regular flights to Buenos Aires.
Enjoy the historic treasure of Santiago del Estero with its pretty parks, proud past and continuing presence in the arts.
