Resources for Travel in Argentina – the Northeast Cities of Santa Fe, Resistencia and Mercedes
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Posted by Karin-Marijke Vis Sep 2, 2009 |
Here we are, among 500 sculptures that dot the streets of Resistencia. They do have culture, the Argentineans: Rosario with its ancient buildings, Córdoba with its amazing churches and now Resistencia as the City of Sculptures. The Tourist Information supplies me with a street plan on which some of the sculptures are indicated, although it doesn't give any additional information about the artists, nor the date or meaning of the sculpture. But this is Argentina, and I'm happy with the plan as it is. Of the 500 sculptures, 150 lack information signs. In general these plaques are made of copper - selling them brings in money for a poor family.
Accidentally I discover the new Park of Sculptures with a brand-new exhibition hall. This park, as well as the sculptures in the city, fall under the supervision of Fundación Urunday, which is run by volunteers. I meet Fabricio, the president of the foundation, and one thing leads to another: I have to watch a video about their biennial sculpture contest.. And what does the man hand me? Yes, a route description of the sculptures in the city, including additional information. How is it possible that the Tourist Information – thé institution that should promote Resistencia as the City of Sculptures – doesn't have this, nor points out that there is a Park of Sculptures? Well, this is Argentina. It has a lot of potential, in so many areas, but they let these potentials slip through their fingers instead of bringing them to fruition. It’s enough to turn your stomach.
So we enjoyed Resistencia. We had a good time wandering in Santa Fe, even though the historic buildings are in a dilapidated state. And on our way north, to Paraguay we admired the many Gaucho Gil's shrines along the roadsides.
Below you'll find links to articles I wrote about these subjects / destinations. Really, northeast Argentina has much more to offer than Iguazú Falls and the Jesuit Missions of San Ignacio. Enjoy!
Sep 1, 2009
After having visited Santa Fe's historical and ethnographic museums, try one of Argentina's fine beers, Santa Fe Beer, or the local empanadas and Merengo alfajores. more...
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...
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...
Oct 30, 2008
Feel the bohemian spirit in cultural centre in the heart of the Chaco Province in north Argentina, which houses the collection of its eccentric founder, Aldo Boglietti. more...
Oct 30, 2008
South America's biennial, international sculpture contest is held in Resistencia, Argentina's Capital of Sculptures; as a result 500 sculptures line the city's streets. more...
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