Culture of Mendoza. Places to visit - old town, temples, theaters, museums and palaces

Mendoza is a scenic city with unique natural attractions and historical landmarks. A major part of the tourist spots is concentrated in the central region of the city which is totally banned for cars and public transport. During the trip the city visitors may observe the General San Martin Park (the Parque General San Martin) and set in its neighborhood church of St. Francis. The religious landmark has not survived till nowadays. The major part of once significant building is now ruined.

The city offers several original museums for tourist visiting. The Pedro del Castilio Square hosts the Historical Regional Foundation Museum which tells its visitors about the most significant events of the past ages. True admirers of arts will love the Cornelio Moyano Museum, which presents a rich collection of antiques apart from ancient paintings and statues.

An appealing and symbolic cultural establishment is the National Wine Museum. During the tour travelers will discover the top secrets of the winemaking process and will be offered to try the astonishing drinks of local wineries. The Casa de Fader, being a historic house museum, is set in an ancient mansion of the end of the 19th century which was once home to famous artist Fernando Fader. The mansion has totally preserved the atmosphere and ambience of the past ages and its ample rooms keep the artworks of the artist and the collection of his private things. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

The nearest suburbs of the Mendoza city locate some significant natural attractions. The well-known balneal resort Villavicencio is in demand not only among the enthusiasts of health tourism but among scenic nature fans. The most significant natural attraction is considered to be the Inca’s Bridge (Puente del Inca) which is located above the Mendoza river. The unique natural creation by its form and appearance really resemble a huge bridge made of stone. However it was not created by mankind.

Hiking fans will get enthused with scenic Atuel Canyon. In its beauty and natural majesty the Canyon can be compared only to the Grand Canyon, located in Colorado. Not far from the Canyon one will find the Diamond Lagoon (Laguna de Diamante) which is among the most important tourist destinations of Mendoza.

Among other interesting natural attractions is the Hill of Seven Colors (Cerro de los 7 Colores). The name is fully justified, as here you can really see as many as seven colors. Hiking will not take much effort here, so this leisure is suitable for people of any age group. In Mendoza, you can also find wonderful religious sights, one of which is Santuario de la Virgen de Lourdes, a wonderful example of modern architecture built in the 1990s. It is also notable for music that sounds during divine services.

In 1908, another monument of sacred architecture was erected - namely, Templo Sagrado Corazón. It is interesting with an image of Our Lady of Good Voyage located inside. The relic is the most valuable artifact of the church dated to the year 1708, therefore it is under protection. It was from this image that travelers asked for blessings before going on a voyage. An equally noteworthy attraction is Capilla Historica el Plumerillo. Once the chapel was a house owned by the Segura family, where services were attended by General San Martin and his officers. In 1861, the church was completely destroyed by an earthquake, and in 1871, the heiress of the Segura family Elisia built a new chapel.

Mendoza Squares are ideal for walks, including Plaza Independencia where all townspeople love to spend time. A picturesque fountain in the middle of the square, benches, green landscapes - all this fascinates at first sight. In the evening, musicians and magicians perform in the square, and at the weekend, you can purchase unique hand-made products at a fair. Plaza Italia is no less captivating - all thanks to its beautiful sculptures and a wonderful fountain installed in the very center.

Built in 1958 in a rationalist style, Casa de Gobierno is also worthy of a visit. Just like Edificio Gómez, whose construction was completed in 1953 by the architect Manuel Civit. It is notable for its eclectic style combining rationalism and art deco. The building is one of the local symbols, which is visible from almost anywhere in the city. It was here that the first TV channel in Argentina (Canal 7) began broadcasting in 1961. Nearby is Pasaje San Martín erected in 1926 according to Ludwig Froude's Art Nouveau design that became the first high-rise building in the city. The fact is that such structures were not built because of fear of future earthquakes. One that happened in 1861 had already destroyed a lot of buildings, and for this reason, Pasaje San Martín was built from earthquake-resistant materials.