Stroll through Plaza Güemes to see historic monuments and landscaped gardens. Sit on a bench with the locals, do some people-watching or spend a weekend morning shopping for handicrafts at the local market.
See the impressively high concrete mast in the center of the park where Argentina’s flag proudly flies in the wind. Walk the paths that radiate outward from the flag mast to divide the park into four sections. Pause to appreciate the monument to Hernando de Lerma who founded the city of Salta on the banks of the Arenales River in the year 1582.
Admire the ornate iron urns that rest on stone plinths and the majestic old trees that give shade to the green grassy areas. Rest on the benches where residents relax chatting to friends and sharing mate, a traditional herbal tea that is drunk out of a gourd through a metal straw.
Visit on the weekend and discover the fantastic artisanal markets. Purchase handmade art and crafts from the region such as basketry, metalwork and traditional Wichí ceramic designs. Market times and dates are available at Salta’s tourist information center.
Overlooking the plaza is the carefully restored 19th-century Palacio Legislativo. Take a photo in front of this graceful building and enter to see where Salta’s Chamber of Representatives meets to discuss regional matters. Enjoy the view of the building from the square at night when the ornate architecture is gloriously illuminated.
Eat in one of the nearby restaurants that serve hearty traditional food, such as rich pasta dishes and Argentinean barbecue. Walk or drive to the plaza from nearby central Salta or stay in one of the excellent accommodations options in the surrounding area.
Relax with a visit to lovely Plaza Güemes and enjoy a rest in the sunshine in this lively city.
