Visiting Cordoba

The second largest city in the country of Argentina is the city of Cordoba. Established in the fourteenth century, and home to one of the first universities on the continent, today Cordoba is called “la docta” for its many educational opportunities. During the 1950s the city faced industrialization programs led by the government, which has left it today as a leader in the motor vehicle and software industries as well.

 

Visitors to the city can view many of the city’s well preserved buildings dating from the 1600s, though the industrialization period did expose some structures to the affects and interference of modern architecture and construction. Luckily entire blocks are now under preservation and protection and the city continues to retain its beautiful and antique charm.

 

In additions to the dozens of historic buildings open to the public, there are also numerous museums, some belonging to the colleges and universities that fill the city, and others simply focusing on a specific subject or collection. There are currently museums of modern art, historic Latin American Indian collections, science museums devoted to the prehistory of the continent as well as the other sciences. There are technology museums dedicated to the industrial focus of the city as well as those educating children about technology. The history museums of the city could easily fill a few days’ itineraries and include everything from art history, to coin collections and a review of Cordoba’s fascinating past.

 

Because the city was built for scholarly pursuits there remain many green and open spaces where the pace and noise of a thriving city can be easily escaped. The two million residents of Cordoba have over twelve large gardens and public parks to visit. Some regularly stage craft or artisan fairs, and some make all sorts of family activities available each weekend.

 

Additionally, because Cordoba is still a college town it offers fantastic cultural venues both day and night. There are many excellent theaters and clubs, including annual festivals in the theater and cinematic arts. There are some major sporting events held in the stadiums built by some of the universities and regularly scheduled games take place throughout the year.