Córdoba
Cordoba offers a fascinating mix of old-school charm alongside vibey new age funk - a place of contrasts, where you will find DJs spinning tunes to crowds of students spilling out of bars alongside 17th century Jesuit ruins. Cordoba is located near the center of Argentina, in the foothills of the Sierras Chicas on the Suquía River. The city, with its steep roads, is clean and beautiful, with a feel of the freshness of the mountains. Jacaranda trees form purple foliage that knocks your breathe away. It is lovely to walk around and you will find beautiful churches and one of the best zoos in Argentina. The people, who are very friendly and welcoming, take time out to enjoy life, and seem to sing when they talk.
There are numerous coffee shops, restaurants, bars, craft markets and places to explore. There is also a yummy vegetarian restaurant, restaurante del sol, that meets the needs of those who choose not to munch their furry friends. As Cordoba is situated at the beginning of the mountain region, it offers beautiful panoramic vistas and hiking trails. Pictuersque little mountain villages are only a bus ride away.
The Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, the oldest university in Argentina, was founded in 1613 by the Jesuit order. Being a university city, Cordoba has a atmospheric nightlife. There are also opportunities for adventure tourism in the Sierras of Cordoba, where you can explore paragliding, hanggliding, hiking, rock climbing and mountian biking.
The feel in Cordoba is very laid back. Although it has a relatively dense population, there is no sense of hustle and bustle. People are relaxed, and often get together in big groups to enjoy each others company. It is a multicultural city, populated by Italian, German, Spanish, Irish, British and French settlers.
Cordoba was awarded in 2006 the title, “Cultural Capital of the Americas” and it really lives up to its vibrant cultural reputation. There are four fantastic art galleries, ranging from classical to contemporary, within walking distance from each other and the city center, and the alternative film scene is also hip and happening. Cordoba also boasts a vibrant music scene that offers something for everyone from classical and jazz, to rock and electronic.
Cordoba: Quick Facts
- capital city of the province of Cordoba, located in central Argentina
- second largest city in Argentina
- population: approx 1.6 million residents
- 1 1/2 hours from the Sierras Chicas and outdoor activities
- has several universities and a large student population from around the country
