10 Things to Do in Jesuit Missions of the Guaranis
Situated in the northeast region of Argentina, the Jesuit Missions of the Guaranis are a group of six settlements that were founded by the Society of Jesus in the 17th and 18th centuries. The ruins of these settlements are now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and are a popular tourist destination for those interested in the history and culture of the Guarani people. Here are 10 things to do when visiting the Jesuit Missions of the Guaranis.
1. Explore San Ignacio Miní: San Ignacio Miní is the best-preserved of the six settlements and the most visited by tourists. It is the only mission that still contains its original church, and it is also home to a museum featuring artifacts from the mission’s history.
2. Visit Santa Ana: Santa Ana is the second-most visited mission and is home to the ruins of a large church and a museum. It is also the site of a yearly festival celebrating the Guarani culture.
3. Tour Loreto: Loreto is the largest and oldest of the six missions, and it is home to the ruins of a large church and several other buildings. It is also the site of the Guarani Museum, which is dedicated to the history and culture of the Guarani people.
4. Explore San Miguel Arcángel: San Miguel Arcángel is the smallest of the six missions and is home to the ruins of a small church and several other buildings.
5. Visit Santa María la Mayor: Santa María la Mayor is the third-largest mission and is home to the ruins of a large church and several other buildings.
6. Tour San Francisco de Borja: San Francisco de Borja is the fourth-largest mission and is home to the ruins of a large church and several other buildings.
7. Explore San Javier: San Javier is the fifth-largest mission and is home to the ruins of a large church and several other buildings.
8. Visit San Roque: San Roque is the sixth-largest mission and is home to the ruins of a large church and several other buildings.
9. Take a Guarani Language Class: The Guarani language is still spoken in the region, and visitors can take a class to learn more about the language and culture of the Guarani people.
10. Enjoy the Local Cuisine: The Jesuit Missions of the Guaranis are home to some of the best local cuisine in the region, so be sure to sample some of the delicious dishes while you’re there.
Visiting the Jesuit Missions of the Guaranis is a great way to learn more about the history and culture of the Guarani people. From exploring the ruins of the missions to sampling the local cuisine, there is something for everyone to enjoy when visiting this unique UNESCO World Heritage Site.