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Culture in Argentina

A quick look at a few of the best spots to soak up some of the culture of Argentina...

Argentina is a destination that has had an interesting and varied history and culture. From the original settlers, in around 7,000BC, to the arrival of the Jesuits and the Spanish, and on to the European settlements and the Incans, each has left a mark on it. For those interested in the arts, the capital, Buenos Aires, is where to head for museums and activities galore. For Incan heritage then the northwest, and for colonial then the city of Cordoba and the province of Misiones.

One of the main reasons many head to Argentina is for its fine collection of Jesuit ruins and the remnants of its Spanish colonial past. Cities such as Mendoza and Cordoba have managed to preserve this cultural heritage and the squares, with their towering palms, are very reminiscent of many cities in Spain. Obviously the capital of Argentina, Buenos Aires is also where many of these influences can be seen in the architecture and general layout.

Heading north from Buenos Aires, right up to the Misiones Province, is where the best examples of Jesuit influence can be found (along with the region just outside Cordoba). In locations such as San Ignacio, Santa Ana and Loreto there are still very well preserved ruins that offer a fascinating glimpse into how these missionaries were maintained and effectively run…so effectively that it was one of the reasons that the Spanish eventually ejected the Jesuit order from Spain and looked to enslave the Guarini that were resident here.

For those more interested in the culture of the indigenous tribes of Argentina, the Tierra del Fuego, there are remains of the Yamana peoples who were a nomadic fishing tribe who used to live, astoundingly, in this inhospitable place throughout the year, wearing only a simple loincloth, or nothing at all. To learn about this fascinating tribe is one of the highlights of visiting this area.

The final area that is worth having a look at for culture is that of the northwest of Argentina, around the city of Salta. This area was colonized (more by invitation than force) by the Incans, from nearby Peru, and so provides plenty of interesting artifacts and insights into their culture. One of the major features that can still be clearly seen is how advanced the Incans were in agriculture. One highlight of a trip to Salta is to visit the MAAM museum on the main square.

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    Our Top Five Culture Hotels in Argentina:

    1. Estancia El Colibri

      Estancia El Colibri

      Estancia El Colibri is the top of the pile, both for price and for the level of comfort. Unlike the other two estancias in the Cordoba region, the building was purpose built for tourism and so it has allowed them to pull all the stops out. Also unlike the other two, the estancia is located in the... More...

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    2. Alvear Palace Hotel - outside

      Alvear Palace Hotel

      The Alvear Palace Hotel is one of the truly old world hotels in the capital, and is a Buenos Aires institution, and rightly so. With its high levels of service and marble covered foyer it is still one of the best places in the capital to spend a few nights if you are looking for this lavish feel.... More...

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    3. El Cortijo Hotel

      El Cortijo Hotel

      The El Cortijo Hotel is both small and intimate, located in the small town of Cachi on the famous driving circuit out of Salta to Cafayate. Usually used as a single night stop over, it has all of the facilities that you can ask for from a simple hotel. The building was once a family home and there... More...

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    4. Hotel Clasico - External View

      Hotel Clasico

      In the buzzy Palermo Hollywood district of Buenos Aires, Hotel Clasico is a great option for those wanting a comfortable and well-located base for exploring Buenos Aires. Its modern design and close proximity to a number of good restaurants make it an easy hotel to recommend for anyone looking for... More...

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    5. Patagonia Rebelde - exterior view

      Patagonia Rebelde

      A small and charming hostería built in the style of an old Patagonian railway station; Patagonia Rebelde is one of the few properties in El Calafate with a real sense of character and history. Although it is a shame that you don’t get the lake views here, the attentive service and welcoming common... More...

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