Resources for Travel in Argentina – Churches, Cathedrals, Cemeteries and Places of Pilgrimage
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Posted by Karin-Marijke Vis Oct 8, 2009 |
Small shrines along the roadside have become a common sight ever since we left Europe, six years ago. Each country, every region seems to have its own style and purpose for these niches, whether it is to commemorate somebody who died here or to appeal to a saint or goddess.
Argentina has two particular types of shrines. The southern part of the country is at times littered with shrines, where vast collections of various-sized water bottles are neatly stacked. The shrines are dedicated to the Difunta Correa, one of the most prominent of the many Argentine folk-saints and before setting off on a long journey travelers offer a bottle of water, along with a prayer.
In the northern provinces we pass many little shrines festooned with bright red flags. According to the story we have to honk our horn in order to ward off any bad luck on our journey. The shrines are dedicated to Gaucho Antonio Gil, who lived in the 19th century.
Religion, churches as well as pilgrimages play a significant role in Argentina's daily life. Visiting churches, cemeteries or other holy places give a good insight in exactly how important this aspect is. Below you'll find a selection of holy places we've visited, which may help you find your way around in the vast collection of Argentina's religious places. Enjoy!
Aug 19, 2009
Santa Fe, originally called Santa Fe de la Veracruz, and is one of Argentina's oldest cities, which can be traced in its historic buildings as well as in its churches. more...
Aug 7, 2009
City of Angels, City of the Dead, or City of Cats - they all refer to the necropolis of Recoleta's cemetery which forms one of Buenos Aires' major tourist attractions. more...
Jul 13, 2009
Two churches deserve a place on Buenos Aires' sightseeing list: St. John's Anglican Cathedral and Basílica de NS de la Merced with the convent of San Ramón. more...
Feb 24, 2009
While Argentina is largely Roman Catholic, Argentineans worship folk saints as well. Gaucho Antonio Gil, the Robin Hood of Argentina, is mostly revered at roadshrines. more...
Jan 30, 2009
Visit the pilgrimage shrine dedicated to the saint Difunta Correa near San Juan, where festivals are held and where worshippers offer personal belongings in gratitude. more...
Sep 5, 2008
The Capital of Faith is not only a place of pilgrimage, where pilgrims honor the Virgin of Luján; visitors also enjoy the marvelous architecture of the Basilica. more...
Sep 4, 2008
After exploring Victoria's architectural glories and touring the Benedictine abbey, it's time to visit thé attraction of Victoria: el Museo OVNI - a museum about UFOs. more...
Jul 14, 2008
Enjoy a one hour walking tour around the lesser known jewels of the city of Rosario - murals by local painters, concealed churches and Che Guevara's house of birth. more...
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