Life in Córdoba, Argentina
Chau Argentina! Although I have left Argentina, I wanted to write about some other aspects that were important to me during my time in Cordoba. My departure was bittersweet saying goodbye to my friends while anticipating reuniting with my friends and family. My time in Argentina felt so brief, but I took advantage of my time and filled it with unforgettable memories. Some of my favorite memories include riding horses in the Sierras Chicas, going to the craft fairs, wandering around downtown, getting ice cream after school on Rafael Nunez, and spending time with my friends.
Cathedrals
One of my favorite things to do when I go to a different country is to look at their cathedrals. The architecture and how the people worship give such insight into the culture. This was no different in Cordoba. Since Cordoba is principally Roman Catholic, there are many churches and cathedrals around the city. I visited quite a few while I was studying abroad. However, my personal favorite was La Iglesia del Sagrado Corazon (aka La Iglesia de los Capuchinos). While on the orientation tour, we took a bus ride around Cordoba. The guide announced the significance of the architecture. One of the sides of the church doesn’t have a completed tower and she said this signifies the fallen world or humanity (the non-completed side), while the completed tower signifies heaven. This caught my attention since symbolism built into architecture is fascinating to me. This is especially engaging because in the States, I feel like there is little symbolism put into the design of a building.
Shopping, Dining & Entertainment
Since Cordoba is such a huge city, there are many options for dining, shopping, and entertainment. There was no end to what one could do after school and on the weekends. People in Argentina are fashionable, so there are numerous shops and malls filled with every clothing and accessory a person could think of. Food options varied to authentic Argentine food to Chinese food. Entertainment-wise, there were many movie theaters, soccer games, parks, and many other places to enjoy in your free time. I often went to the get ice cream or gelato on Rafael Nunez (located not too far away from my house) with my friends after school or on the weekend. There, we would talk about our traveling plans, school, politics, and other topics.
Historical Sites
Just like any other historical city, Cordoba has its fair share of historical sites to visit. There were many locations that I was able to go and see while there. However, the one that stood out the most to me was the Archivo de la Memoria. Previously, I had mentioned how my history teacher had focused on the Argentina Dirty War time period. We went into great detail about the influences and events that happened during this recent event. It is astonishing to me how recent this horrifying event occurred. One of the many detention centers is located in downtown Cordoba. With our class, we went and our history teacher explained the history and purpose of the building and each of its rooms. It felt slightly creepy to be in there, knowing that people had been tortured and killed in some of the rooms. To this day, many of the “disappeared” have not been found. It is undeniably a tragic event.
Craft Fairs
One of my favorite activities to do while residing in Cordoba was going to the many craft fairs that were offered on a daily or annual basis. It was thrilling to discover small gifts that I could take to my family and friends. There were two craft fairs that I frequented a few times.
Paseo de las Artes is one of the craft fairs that I visited two or three times while I was there. It is open daily in the afternoons. Craftsmen sell their wares including dish ware, artsy journals, handmade jewelry, etc. I loved wandering through the streets looking at all the goods. I was able to find many postcards and other souvenirs to take back to the States with me. One of the last days I was there, for fun, I got my caricature done. It is the ideal place to acquire postcards, mate cups, jewelry, that have been inspired by the Argentine culture.
Another famous craft fair that is held annually, is La Feria Nacional de los Artesanos. Artisans from all over Latin America flock to sell and display their products. There are so many craftsmen, that they fill up several buildings. It was one of my favorite parts of my time in Cordoba. Many of the artisans were selling something that is essential to their heritage including woven baskets, traditional instruments, cutlery, jewelry, etc. It was unbelievably amazing to see the different products that were being sold there. At this crafts fair, I also found many souvenirs for family and friends. I would definitely recommend this as a must-see in the spring.
Cabalgata - Trail Riding
Quite a few times, I found myself unable to resist going on horse rides that lasted a few hours. The first time I tried it, my family was here and they humored me; they don’t love riding that much. The owner picked us up from the hotel and drove us up to the Sierras Chicas (mountains outside of Cordoba). Salvador, the owner, has over 40 horses that graze in the mountains. He offers various riding options to his guests. We opted to do one of the cabalgatas (horse rides) that lasted several hours. It was amazing to see the wilderness. The view from the mountaintops over the heavily populated forests was stunning. I couldn’t resist going back several times and I tried different trail rides. Some of the things we completed were riding through rivers and streams, riding up steep hills, passing through forests, crossing bridges, etc. Some of the days I rode for so long that we would halt, tie the horses up to an available tree or bush and eat asado (barbecue). It was an unforgettable experience to eat in random locations while riding extensively for hours. I would just return to Argentina for the riding. Salvador was a great host, explaining the sights, talking about his horses and his love of Argentina. He even offered me a job taking care and riding his horses! Sadly, I had to decline since I had to return to the States.
Amigos
My time in Argentina wouldn’t have been as enjoyable if I hadn’t had wonderful teachers and friends. I have so many sensational memories of, not only spending time in class, but also going on trips and spending time after school with them. After class, I had some of the best conversations with my friends while we waited patiently for the the colectivo (bus), and also while we were jostling to get on and off at our stops. On Friday nights and the weekend we would head over to our favorite bars (my favorite was Don’t Worry) to chill out and de-stress. Heading home in a remis (taxi) and dropping each person off; telling them to text when they arrived safely at their house was a way that we cared for, and made sure each individual arrived back safely. All of these precious memories will remain with me and continue to impact my life even now. Note: Those pictured below isn’t everyone. I just found some of my favorite photos or those that had a better quality.
Despite my semester abroad ending already, the memories of friends and experiences will forever be a part of me. I am eternally grateful that they made this experience one that I won’t forget. I’m also thankful that so many people, back in the States, continually support and motivate me, even in the difficult times, to pursue an education and to be dedicated, committed, and enthusiastic in all that I do. Thank you so much. Until next time. Chau!