Cultural & Historical Destinations in Salta, Salta, Argentina
1. Museum of High Altitude Archaeology (MAA)
Explore ancient cultures at high altitudes. Houses artifacts from the Incas and local cultures.
- Unique Artifacts: Contains the mummies of Llullaillaco, the highest-altitude mummies in the world.
- High Altitude Archaeology: Focuses on archaeological findings at extreme altitudes, a unique focus among museums.
- Local Cultures: Displays artifacts and information about local indigenous cultures of the Andean region.
2. Humahuaca Gorge
Experience a breathtaking canyon filled with colorful hills and ancient Inca ruins.
- Colorful Hills: Features stunning red, green, purple, and yellow rock formations.
- Ancient Inca Ruins: Includes the ancient ruins of Pucará de Tilcara, a well-preserved Incan fortress.
- Cultural Heritage: Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its cultural significance.
3. Cathedral of Salta
Visit a beautiful neoclassical cathedral with intricate Baroque details.
- Baroque Details: Features ornate wood carvings, gold-leafed altars, and stunning frescoes.
- Historical Significance: Built in the 18th century as a symbol of Spanish colonial power.
- Neoclassical Architecture: One of the most prominent examples of neoclassical architecture in Salta.
4. San Francisco Church
Discover a unique church with both Baroque and Indigenous influences.
- Indigenous Influences: Features Kolla artwork and designs, reflecting local indigenous cultures.
- Baroque Architecture: Boasts stunning Baroque architecture with a distinctive bell tower.
- Historical Significance: Built in the 17th century and served as the city's main church.
5. Cerro San Bernardo
Hike up a hill for panoramic views of Salta and its historic sites.
- Panoramic Views: Offers breathtaking vistas of the city, the Lerma Valley, and surrounding mountains.
- Historic Fort: Includes the historic Sanctuary of San Bernardo, a fort built in the 18th century.
- Natural Beauty: Home to a variety of native plant and animal species.
6. Jerónimos Church
Visit a charming church with beautiful Baroque architecture.
- Baroque Architecture: Boasts stunning Baroque facade, bell tower, and intricate interior details.
- Historical Significance: Built in the late 17th century as a Jesuit church.
- Artistic Mural: Features an impressive artistic mural by famous Argentine artist, Benito Quinquela Martín.
7. Salta's Artisan Market (El Camino de las Yungas)
Shop for traditional crafts and try local delicacies at a bustling artisan market.
- Craft Variety: Offers a wide variety of handmade crafts, such as textiles, pottery, and leather goods.
- Local Cuisine: Features food stalls serving traditional dishes like empanadas, humitas, and locro.
- Authentic Experience: Provides a genuine taste of local culture and traditions.
8. Museum of Contemporary Art (MACRO)
Explore contemporary art exhibits from Argentine artists.
- Argentine Artists: Features works by renowned contemporary Argentine artists.
- Interactive Exhibits: Offers interactive and multimedia exhibits for a unique experience.
- Temporary Exhibitions: Hosts temporary exhibitions showcasing various contemporary art movements.
9. Hills of Sama (Cerros de Sama)
Hike through beautiful hills covered in cacti and other native flora.
- Native Flora: Features a variety of native cacti species, as well as other unique plants.
- Panoramic Views: Offers stunning vistas of the surrounding valley and mountains.
- Archaeological Sites: Includes pre-Columbian archaeological sites such as Pucará de Sama.
10. Cabildo of Salta
Visit the historic town hall and learn about Salta's colonial past.
- Historical Significance: Built in the late 17th century as the city's town hall.
- Colonial Architecture: Features Baroque architecture with a unique red-brick facade.
- Local History: Houses exhibits detailing Salta's colonial history and culture.
11. Monument to the Heroes of the Independence
Pay tribute to Argentine heroes who fought for independence.
- Historical Significance: Honors key figures in Argentina's struggle for independence.
- Patriotic Symbolism: Includes statues of revolutionary heroes and a large Argentine flag.
- City Landmark: Serves as a prominent symbol and landmark in Salta.
12. San Martin Square (Plaza San Martín)
Relax in the heart of Salta at a bustling city square.
- City Center: Located in the heart of Salta, close to many other attractions.
- Historical Monuments: Features statues and monuments honoring key figures in Argentina's history.
- Cultural Events: Hosts cultural events, performances, and markets throughout the year.
13. San Lorenzo Church
Visit a beautiful church with unique blue domes.
- Blue Domes: Features distinctive blue domes, unlike many other churches in the region.
- Baroque Architecture: Boasts stunning Baroque architecture with intricate details.
- Historical Significance: Built in the late 18th century and serves as a significant religious site.
14. Santa Victoria Church
Discover a unique church with a mix of Indigenous and Spanish architecture.
- Indigenous Influences: Features Indigenous Kolla design elements, such as traditional roofing techniques.
- Spanish Architecture: Incorporates Baroque architecture and a bell tower in its design.
- Historical Significance: Built in the late 17th century as a Jesuit church.
15. Salta's Wine Route (Ruta de Vinos de Salta)
Explore vineyards and taste local wines on a scenic route.
- Scenic Beauty: Passes through beautiful valleys, mountains, and vineyards.
- Local Wines: Tastes a variety of local wines, including Torrontés, Malbec, and Bonarda.
- Wine Education: Learns about the winemaking process, grape varieties, and wine history in Salta.