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Ruinas Jesuíticas de San Francisco: Echoes of Colonial Mendoza

Explore the remnants of an 18th-century Jesuit mission, a testament to Mendoza's colonial past and resilience after the devastating 1861 earthquake.

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The Ruinas Jesuíticas de San Francisco are the evocative remains of a Jesuit church and complex, dating back to the 18th century. Destroyed by an earthquake in 1861, the ruins stand as a poignant reminder of Mendoza's colonial past and the impact of the Jesuit order on the region.

A brief summary to Ruinas Jesuíticas de San Francisco

  • Tuesday 9 am-6 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-6 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-6 pm
  • Friday 9 am-6 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-6 pm
  • Sunday 2 pm-6 pm

Local tips

  • Visit during weekday mornings for a quieter, more intimate experience.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the terrain can be uneven in certain areas.
  • Check local events for guided tours or special activities.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Museo del Área Fundacional, walk west along Ituzaingó street for approximately 200 meters. The Ruinas Jesuíticas de San Francisco will be on your left, occupying the corner of Ituzaingó and Beltrán streets. This is a short walk within the historic district.

  • Public Transport

    From the central bus terminal in Mendoza, take a bus heading towards Ituzaingó. These buses are operated by local companies and run several times a day. The bus ride will take approximately one hour. Once you reach Ituzaingó, you may need to take a short taxi ride or walk to reach the Ruinas Jesuíticas de San Francisco. Bus fare: ARS 150-250.

  • Taxi/Ride-Sharing

    From Mendoza city center, a taxi or ride-sharing service like Uber will take approximately 40 minutes to reach the ruins, depending on traffic. The ride will cost between ARS 500-800.

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Discover more about Ruinas Jesuíticas de San Francisco

Located in the foundational area of Mendoza, the Ruinas Jesuíticas de San Francisco offer a glimpse into the city's rich colonial history. The complex was constructed by the Jesuits between 1716 and 1731, serving as a center for religious, educational, and agricultural activities. The Jesuits, who arrived in Mendoza in the early 1600s, significantly shaped the region through their missionary work and promotion of education. In 1767, the Jesuit order was expelled from Spanish territories, and the church was handed over to the Franciscan order. The site then became known as San Francisco. The devastating earthquake of 1861 destroyed the church, leaving only ruins. These ruins are the only visible remains of the old city of Mendoza before the earthquake. The ruins were declared a National Historic Monument in 1941. Today, visitors can explore the ruins and learn about the history of the site at the Interpretation Center. The remaining structures include parts of the church, walls and columns. The site provides a serene environment surrounded by gardens, ideal for reflection and photography.

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