Argentina Travel: History in Alta Gracia
Argentina Travel: History in Alta Gracia
Located just south of Cordoba, beautifully set in landscapes of forest and lush countryside, the town of Alta Gracia is a delight to all history buffs, who will find here some of the best and most well-preserved remnants of Argentina's colorful history. Among the most famous attractions of Alta Gracia are a splendid 17th century Jesuit estancia, with its beautiful and complete museum, and 20th century icon Che Guevara's old family house.
Spending a few days in quiet Alta Gracia, with its charming center made of residential buildings and shaded streets, is a real pleasure. The town's residential area, El Alto, boasts a quaint charm, and is home to many delicious restaurants where to taste excellent traditional cuisine before you set out to explore Alta Gracia's most impressive sights.
One of the main attractions of Alta Gracia is Estancia Jesuitica Alta, a fascinating testament to Jesuits' rich culture and history, which has been recognized as a Wolrd Heritage Site by UNESCO. Dating back to 1643, when nearby Cordoba was the capital of the Jesuit province of Paraguay, this estancia was built for educational purposes, and comprised a Residence, the Obraje (industrial workshop), the Rancheria, where black slaves lived, the Tajamar, built as a water reservoir, a water mill and a church. The church, with its impressive baroque faade and rich interior is the best kept of all the buildings, and is the only one still in use in the region. Exploring this magnificent and gigantic estancia is a great way to gain fascinating insights in the Jesuit culture and way of life at the time.
Travelers interested in learning more about one of the 20th century most well-known political personalities, Che Guevara, will of course have to pay a visit to his old family house, which now houses a museum on this famous revolutionary. Che Guevara's parents moved to Alta Gracia when he was four years old, and he lived there for twelve years, in a pleasant middle-class neighborhood. Although the museum itself is a bit disappointing, real fans will revel in walking on the steps of Che Guevara, learn about his early childhood, and see the house where he was raised.
If you're looking for a thrill, you can also try your hand at sky diving in Alta Gracia. Enjoy history and adventure in this charming town, where it's worthwhile slowing down and enjoying a few days of relaxation. There are many excellent hotels in town to suit every budget as well as an array of restaurants to try some delicious regional cuisine. Top 3 Honeymoon Destinations in South America Argentina Holidays: Villages of Los Valles Calchaquies Latest Summer Shoe Collection 2011 Practical model for Measuring progress towards Sustainable rural tourism development (SRTD) in rural area of Iran Relaxing Holidays in Asia Gul Ahmed Summer Collection 2011 Holidays in the Americas Bermuda - The Pink Sand Paradise Great Culinary Destinations in Asia A Guide to The Five Hotel Located in Paris France Fun Beach Activities Summer Trend Eastern Delicacy The Evolving World of Travel