Weird & Unusual Attractions in San Juan, San Juan, Argentina
1. Giant Metallic Cross of San Juan
A colossal metallic cross standing atop Mount Torotoro, visible from far distances, offering a unique perspective of the city.
- Tall Structure: The cross stands over 40 meters tall, making it one of the largest metallic crosses in South America.
- Panoramic View: Visitors can enjoy a panoramic view of San Juan from the foot or summit of Mount Torotoro.
- Symbolic Significance: The cross symbolizes the deep-rooted Catholic faith of the locals, making it an important religious landmark.
2. The Devil's Throat (La Garganta del Diablo)
A unique natural attraction where the San Juan River seems to flow upwards in a series of whirlpools.
- Natural Phenomenon: The Devil's Throat is one of only three places worldwide where rivers appear to flow upwards.
- Adventure Opportunities: Visitors can enjoy rafting, kayaking, or simply observing this fascinating phenomenon from designated viewpoints.
- Local Legend: According to local legend, the Devil's Throat is where the devil drinks his tea every day.
3. The House of Mummies (La Casa de las Momias)
A museum filled with mummified bodies found in the nearby Guanajuato ravine.
- Ancient History: The mummies date back to pre-Hispanic times, providing a glimpse into the region's ancient history.
- Scientific Research: Researchers study these mummies to learn more about their lifestyles, causes of death, and mummification process.
- Cultural Significance: The museum plays a significant role in preserving the indigenous culture and history of San Juan.
4. The Cementery of San Juan (Cementerio de San Juan)
An historic cemetery with a mix of traditional and eccentric gravesites.
- Historical Significance: The cemetery dates back to the 18th century, offering insight into San Juan's history through its graves.
- Unusual Gravesites: Visitors can see various unusual and intricate graves, such as those shaped like horses, angels, and even a guitar.
- Peaceful Atmosphere: The cemetery offers a tranquil atmosphere for reflection and appreciation of the city's history and culture.
5. The Museum of Inca Garcilaso de la Vega (Museo Inca Garcilaso de la Vega)
A museum dedicated to the famous Peruvian author and historian who was born in San Juan.
- Literary History: The museum showcases Inca Garcilaso's works, providing insight into his life and contributions to history.
- Multimedia Exhibits: Visitors can enjoy interactive displays, videos, and artifacts related to Inca Garcilaso's life and work.
- Cultural Exchange: The museum fosters an understanding of the complex relationships between the Incas, Spaniards, and indigenous peoples in the region.
6. The Museum of Witches (Museo de Brujas)
A museum dedicated to the local legends and folklore surrounding witches in San Juan.
- Superstition and Folklore: The museum explores the local beliefs about witches, their powers, and the impact on the community.
- Interactive Displays: Visitors can participate in various activities related to witchcraft, such as casting spells or brewing potions.
- Cultural Preservation: The museum helps preserve the unique cultural traditions and beliefs of San Juan's inhabitants.
7. The Museum of the Inquisition (Museo de la Inquisicion)
A museum exploring the history and impact of the Spanish Inquisition in San Juan.
- Religious History: The museum provides insight into the religious persecution that occurred during the Spanish Inquisition.
- Interactive Exhibits: Visitors can learn about the Inquisition through interactive displays, artifacts, and narratives.
- Human Rights Education: The museum fosters an understanding of religious intolerance and human rights issues throughout history.
8. The House of Seven Chimneys (La Casa de las Siete Chimeneas)
A historic house with seven chimneys that served as a hideout for liberation fighters.
- Historical Significance: The house played a crucial role in the independence struggles of San Juan, making it an important historical landmark.
- Architectural Beauty: The house showcases traditional Andalusian architecture with beautiful patios and courtyards.
- Cultural Preservation: The house serves as a reminder of San Juan's role in the independence struggles, contributing to cultural preservation efforts.
9. The Museum of the Revolution (Museo de la Revolucion)
A museum showcasing the revolutionary history of San Juan and its role in Argentina's independence.
- Independence Movement: The museum highlights the key events, figures, and battles in San Juan's struggle for independence.
- Artifacts and Documents: Visitors can see original documents, weapons, and artifacts from the revolutionary period.
- Cultural Preservation: The museum helps preserve the legacy of San Juan's role in Argentina's independence, fostering national pride.
10. The Museum of Minerals (Museo de Minerales)
A museum dedicated to the various minerals found in San Juan, including precious stones and metals.
- Geological Wonders: The museum showcases a variety of geological specimens, from precious gems to unusual minerals.
- Interactive Exhibits: Visitors can participate in activities such as panning for gold and learning about the mining process.
- Scientific Research: Researchers use the museum's collections to study geology, mineralogy, and the mining industry.
11. The Museum of the Bandit Vincente Peña (Museo del Bandido Vincente Peña)
A museum dedicated to the life and exploits of a legendary bandit who roamed San Juan in the late 19th century.
- Criminal History: The museum offers insights into the life, exploits, and eventual capture of Vincente Peña.
- Interactive Exhibits: Visitors can explore interactive displays, including reproductions of Peña's hideouts and weapons.
- Cultural Preservation: The museum preserves the memory of a local legend, contributing to San Juan's rich cultural tapestry.
12. The Museum of Folklore (Museo del Folklore)
A museum dedicated to the traditional music, dance, and culture of San Juan.
- Cultural Preservation: The museum preserves traditional customs and traditions, helping to keep them alive for future generations.
- Interactive Exhibits: Visitors can learn about the region's music, dance, and folklore through interactive displays and demonstrations.
- Cultural Exchange: The museum fosters an appreciation for San Juan's unique culture and encourages cultural exchange with visitors.
13. The Museum of Prehistoric Man (Museo del Hombre Prehistorico)
A museum dedicated to the archaeological findings and prehistory of San Juan.
- Ancient History: The museum showcases fossils, artifacts, and other findings from San Juan's prehistoric past.
- Interactive Exhibits: Visitors can participate in activities such as replicating cave paintings or handling prehistoric tools.
- Scientific Research: Researchers use the museum's collections to study human evolution, paleontology, and archaeology.
14. The Museum of Wine (Museo del Vino)
A museum dedicated to the history, production, and consumption of wine in San Juan.
- Viticulture History: The museum showcases the history of vine cultivation and winemaking in San Juan.
- Wine Tasting: Visitors can taste different wines produced in the region, learning about their unique flavors and characteristics.
- Cultural Exchange: The museum fosters an understanding of the important role wine plays in San Juan's culture and economy.
15. The Museum of Salt (Museo de la Sal)
A museum dedicated to the history, production, and uses of salt in San Juan.
- Industrial History: The museum showcases the history of salt mining and production in San Juan.
- Interactive Exhibits: Visitors can participate in activities such as simulating salt mining or creating salt art.
- Cultural Preservation: The museum helps preserve the legacy of salt production, contributing to San Juan's unique cultural identity.