Jesuit Block and Estancias of Córdoba, Argentina

Iglesia de Santa Catalina, Cordoba, Argentina
Source: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Santa_Catalina_066.JPG
Author: Claudio Elias


Jesuit Block and Estancias of Córdoba are the complex of buildings within the Jesuit mission in Córdoba, Argentina. It also includes the six ranches, called estancias, operated by the Jesuit, namely Caroya, Jesús María, Santa Catalina, Alta Gracia, Candelaria and San Ignacio.

Jesuit Block and Estancias of Cordoba were inscribed as World Heritage Sites during the 24th session of the World Heritage Committee which met in Cairns, Australia, from 27 November to 2 December, 2000.

What to See in Jesuit Block and Estancias of Córdoba

The Jesuit Block, also known as Manzana de los Jesuitas or Manzana de las Luces (Block of Enlightenment) includes the University of Cordoba, one of the oldest universities in South America. It also includes the Monserrat Secondary School (Colegio Nacional de Monserrat), the church Iglesia de la Compañia, and residences. These are all within the city of Cordoba. The estancias are in the province of Cordoba.

Iglesia de la Compania, Cordoba, Argentina
Source: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Interior_de_la_iglesia_de_la_Compa%C3%B1%C3%ADa_de_C%C3%B3rdoba.JPG
Author: Lancastermerrin88

History of Jesuit Block and the Estancias of Cordoba

The Jesuit Block, or Manzana Jesuítica, was established in 1615, along with the ranches. In 1767, they were expelled from the Americas by a decree from King Charles III of Spain. During their absence, the farm and complex were maintained by the Franciscans until 1853, when the Jesuits returned to the Americas. A year following, the university and school which they started were nationalized.

Location of Jesuit Block and the Estancias of Cordoba

Jesuit Block and the Estancias of Cordoba are located in Cordoba, the second largest city in Argentina. Cordoba has a population of 2 million, and is also the capital of Cordoba province, in the heart of the Pampas. Go to the Cordoba page for more details about the city.

World Heritage Site Inscription Details

Location: S 31 25 14 W 64 11 28
Inscription Year: 2000
Type of Site: Cultural
Inscription Criteria: II, IV

Visiting Jesuit Block and the Estancias of Cordoba

Although this World Heritage Site is in Cordoba, I would recommend that you base yourself in Buenos Aires, the capital of Argentina. Find your accommodation in Buenos Aires, and then get your hotel to help you make arrangements for visiting the sights in Cordoba and elsewhere in Argentina. There will be plenty more tour packages to choose from in Buenos Aires, according to the amount of time you have in your hands.

Going to Cordoba

Cordoba can be easily reached by plane or train from Buenos Aires. The Ingeniero Talavella international airport is located 10 km to the north of the city centre. It receives flights from many major towns in Argentina, as well as from Lima, Santiago de Chile, Santa Cruz de la Sierra in Bolivia and Porto Alegre in Brazil.

List of World Heritage Sites in Argentina and World Heritage Sites in the World

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