Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
8 Santa Catalina
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this Jesuit estancia
was founded in 1622. It became an important agricul-
tural and sheepfarming establishment, yet its most
important function was as the provider of thousands
of mules for cargo trains traveling along the Camino
Real between Buenos Aires and Alto Perú (now Bolivia).
The extensive site contained workshops, a smithy, a
carpentry, two flour mills, and a reservoir; there were
also residences for priests, native laborers, and slaves.
Its soaring main church is one of the best examples of
colonial Baroque in the country. While it is now
administered by the state in accordance with a
presidential decree, Santa Catalina remains the
private property of the Díaz family.
Corridor characterized by plain brick walls
and curved ceiling
Rear Courtyard
The rear patio is surrounded by workshops and possibly
residences for laborers, though slaves were housed in a
building apart from the main complex.
. Central Courtyard
The grandest of the three main patios, this is
enclosed by a vaulted gallery and has a central
fountain. Cloisters and workshops occupy the
rooms along the sides.
For hotels and restaurants see pp278-83 and pp288-99
 
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