Santiago del Estero : Interesting Facts, Historical Monuments & Information | What is Santiago del Estero known for

Santiago del Estero : Interesting Facts, Historical Monuments & Information | What is Santiago del Estero known for

Santiago del Estero is the province in Argentina which is known for the endless vistas of dust-filled mountains, old-world villages, and regional histories.

But there is so much more to Santiago del Estero than meets the eye. It is home to some of Argentina’s best-kept secrets such as its intriguing historical monuments, unique traditional activities, and interesting facts about the area.

In this post, we will explore Santiago del Estero through its amazing attractions and information, including what it is known for and what makes Santiago del Estero so special.

Interesting Facts About Santiago del Estero City

Here are some lesser-known facts about Santiago del Estero, a province in Argentina:

  1. Oldest City: Santiago del Estero is known as the “Mother of Cities” because it is the oldest city in Argentina. It was founded on July 25, 1553, by Spanish conquistador Francisco de Aguirre.
  2. Geographic Center: Santiago del Estero is located in the northern-central part of Argentina and is considered the geographic center of the country.
  3. Land of the Sun: Santiago del Estero is often referred to as the “Land of the Sun” due to its high number of sunny days throughout the year. It experiences a semi-arid climate with hot summers and mild winters.
  4. Quemado Lake: The province is home to Quemado Lake, a saltwater lake that is famous for its pink color. The unique color is caused by the presence of microorganisms and algae in the water.
  5. Indigenous Heritage: Santiago del Estero has a rich indigenous heritage. The province is inhabited by various indigenous communities, including the Vilela, Toba, and Chorote peoples, who have preserved their traditional customs and way of life.
  6. Folklore Capital: The city of Santiago del Estero is considered the “Folklore Capital” of Argentina. It hosts the National Folklore Festival, a significant cultural event that attracts musicians, dancers, and artists from all over the country.
  7. Bilingual City: In the city of Santiago del Estero, there is a significant presence of bilingualism. Many residents speak both Spanish and Quechua, an indigenous language widely spoken in the region.
  8. Thermal Springs: The province is known for its natural thermal springs, which are believed to have healing properties. The Termas de Río Hondo is a popular destination for tourists seeking relaxation and wellness.
  9. Colonial Architecture: Santiago del Estero boasts colonial architecture that reflects its rich history. The Cathedral Basilica of Santiago del Estero, built in the 16th century, is one of the oldest churches in Argentina and is a prominent example of colonial architecture in the region.
  10. Pachamama Festival: The Pachamama Festival is a traditional celebration that takes place in Santiago del Estero and other parts of Argentina. It is a tribute to Pachamama, the Inca goddess of fertility and nature. The festival involves rituals, offerings, and ceremonies to honor and give thanks to the earth and its resources.

These are just a few interesting facts about Santiago del Estero. The province has a unique cultural heritage and natural beauty that make it a fascinating part of Argentina to explore.

What is Santiago del Estero City is Known For

Santiago del Estero City is known for its colonial architecture, diversity of attractions, and its rich cultural heritage. It is also known as the cradle of the Argentinean nation as it is the oldest city in the country. Additionally, Santiago del Estero is known for its cattle farming, agriculture, and oil & gas production.

History & Information About Santiago del Estero City

Santiago del Estero is a city located in the northwest region of Argentina and is the capital of Santiago del Estero Province. It was founded in 1553 and is the oldest colonial settlement in Argentina. Its oldest structure is the Cathedral of San Francisco which was built in 1565.

In the colonial era, Santiago del Estero was an important stop along the main road that connected Argentina with the rest of the Spanish colonies. As such, it was an integral trading center and attracted merchants and travelers from around the region.

Over time, the city became known for its agricultural production and its commerce. Agriculture remains an important sector in the economy of the city today with soybean, corn, beans, and yerba mate being the main products.

The city of Santiago del Estero is known for hosting a variety of festivals throughout the year, including the Fiesta de San Juan, a festival dedicated to the patron saint of the city. The city is also home to a large number of museums, including the Museum of Art History, the Mining Museum, and the House of Memory.

Best Famous Monuments & Historical Buildings in Santiago del Estero city

Santiago del Estero is a small Argentinian city, but it is home to some amazing historical buildings and monuments. These sights provide a glimpse into the rich history of the city and the region.

One of the most famous monuments found in Santiago del Estero is the Monumento de Nuestras Raices. This monument was built by local sculptor Ferruccio Ferrazzi in 1959 in honor of the city’s heritage. It is composed of various sculptures representing different aspects of the culture, including the gaucho, or Argentine cowboy, and the calchaquíes, or native Australians.

Another notable monument is the Barrio de Chacras. Built in the early 20th century, this large complex consists of four buildings, some extending to seven stories tall. It is home to various administrative and cultural buildings, including a theater and a museum. Its imposing architecture is in stark contrast with the traditional buildings of the city.

The Cathedral of Santiago del Estero is one of the oldest churches of its type in Argentina. Built in the mid-19th century, it is decorated with elaborate altars and sculptures. It also features an organ said to be capable of producing sounds from up to seven chords.

Finally, the most impressive monument in the city is the Kabalafut Monument. This consists of three large panels that feature intricate symbols and designs that represent the different ethnic groups that make up the identity of Santiago del Estero. It is located near the large park of the same name, and can easily be seen from a distance.

These are just few of the beautiful monuments and historical buildings that one can find in Santiago del Estero. It is a place where history and culture come alive, and a visit is sure to be unforgettable.

History & Information About Santiago del Estero City, Argentina

Santiago del Estero is not only a province but also the name of its capital city, located in the northern-central region of Argentina. Here’s some history and information about Santiago del Estero city:

History:

  • Santiago del Estero is the oldest city in Argentina, founded on July 25, 1553, by the Spanish conquistador Francisco de Aguirre. It was established as a strategic outpost to control the indigenous populations and secure Spanish rule in the region.
  • During the colonial period, Santiago del Estero served as an important administrative and religious center. It became the capital of the region known as “Tucumán” (which encompassed present-day northern Argentina, Paraguay, and parts of Bolivia and Chile).
  • The city played a significant role in the fight for Argentine independence. It was a hub for regional revolutionary movements, and many important figures of the time, including General Manuel Belgrano and General José de San Martín, passed through Santiago del Estero during their campaigns.

Information:

  • Santiago del Estero is the capital and largest city of the Santiago del Estero Province. It is situated about 1,100 kilometers (680 miles) northwest of Buenos Aires.
  • The city has a population of approximately 250,000 people, making it one of the major urban centers in the region.
  • Santiago del Estero is known for its colonial architecture, reflecting its long history. The Cathedral Basilica of Santiago del Estero, built in the 16th century, is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks.
  • The economy of Santiago del Estero is primarily based on agriculture, with the production of cotton, soybeans, corn, and cattle being significant contributors. The province is also known for its leather and textile industries.
  • Santiago del Estero is a cultural hub, particularly renowned for its traditional folklore. The city hosts the National Folklore Festival, an annual event that attracts artists, musicians, and dancers from all over Argentina.
  • The city is also a gateway to the natural beauty of the province, with nearby attractions such as the Termas de Río Hondo (hot springs) and the Mar Chiquita Lagoon, which is the second-largest saltwater lake in South America.
  • Santiago del Estero has a semi-arid climate with hot summers and mild winters. The region is characterized by a high number of sunny days throughout the year.

Overall, Santiago del Estero city holds a significant place in Argentine history as the oldest city in the country and continues to be a cultural and economic center in the region.

About me

Hello,My name is Aparna Patel,I’m a Travel Blogger and Photographer who travel the world full-time with my hubby.I like to share my travel experience.

Search Posts

Latest posts

Popular posts