Off The Beaten Path Lujan Argentina

Luján is situated in the northeast of Buenos Aires province. It is a place of religion and spiritualism. Tourism is mostly for religious purposes. The city is dubbed „Ciudad de la Fe“ or the "City of Faith". It is renowned for its impressive Gothic-style basilica and Virgen de Luján, a miraculous, 38-cm high Virgin Mary painting. It has been in the city since 1630. In the beginning, the Virgin Mary painting was put in the shrine around which the town of Lujan emerged in 1671. The construction of the basilica started in the year 1887. It was constructed thanks to crowdfunding. Every year, up to one million pilgrims go 60 kilometers on foot to give their thanks to the Virgin Mary. Buses travel here all day long because of the basilica. Plaza Real is the former name of Plaza Belgrano, a square adjacent to the basilica. This is because of the road Camino Real road which ran to Alto Peru. Eventually, it was renamed to honour General Belgrano. Also, his memorial was placed there. The huge square can contain thousands of pilgrims. Moreover, it is surrounded by Museográfico Enrique Udaondo compound which features province's two older structures – Cabildo and Casa del Virrey. Both were declared sights of national cultural significance in 1942. Museo de Bellas Artes Félix Amador and Museo de Transportes (here is the Plus Ultra, first plane to make the South Atlantic Crossing) are other interesting structures around here. Plaza Colón is city's main square and one of the best green spaces here. There are many trees and statues. Parque Ameghino is an ideal place for relax. It had been called Parque Santamaria till the year 1924. Its current name was given to it to honour Florentino Ameghino. Apart from basilica and historic structures, Lujan is an ordinary town. Go outside the tourist center to see a classic busy town. If you’re travelling with kids, the Luján zoo is nearby the town center, has a small museum and is a great place for them to play with farm animals, pet a tiger, and enjoy some time outdoors. How to get here: The 57 bus to Luján/Mercedes leaves from Plaza Italia every 30 minutes or so and drops you off at the Luján terminal which is right beside the Town square. Sube ticket is $AR 220 (5USD) each way, so make sure to charge the full fare beforehand. The bus ride takes approximately 1 1/2 hours depending on traffic. Starting from the bus Station we'll walk along the Museums, former Virrey House and city markets. We will talk about the city colonial past and its foundation. We will visit the Basilica and the Crypt under the main building, then visit the river shore. Tour ends at Main Square.