Posadas, Argentina
Region: Misiones
Geographic Coordinates: -27.366700, -55.900000
Temperature Range: 15.0°C to 35.0°C (59°F to 95°F)
Climate: Seasonal with hot summers and mild winters.
Population: 275988
Language: Spanish
Posadas is the capital city of Misiones Province in northeastern Argentina. It sits on the banks of the Paraná River, Forming a natural border with Paraguay. The city has a population of around 300, 000 people and is famous for its cultural heritage, Beautiful scenery and bustling nightlife. The historic center of Posadas is one of its main attractions. It boasts many colonial-style buildings dating back to the 19th century. Visitors can explore landmarks like the Cathedral of San José and Plaza 9 de Julio, Which houses various shops, Restaurants and cafes.
Posadas also features many parks and green spaces for outdoor activities such as hiking or biking. The Parque Nacional Iguazú located outside the city limits showcases some of Argentina’s most stunning waterfalls while locals frequent Parque de la Ciudad or Laguna del Ojo de Agua for picnics. The culinary scene in Posadas highlights traditional Argentine dishes alongside international cuisine. Empanadas (stuffed pastries), Asado (barbecue) and mate (a tea-like beverage) are local favorites that visitors can sample at various restaurants throughout town with views over the river.
For those looking to enjoy nightlife activities, Posadas offers trendy bars to lively nightclubs hosting live music events featuring local artists playing everything from traditional folk music to contemporary pop hits. Posadas serves as an important gateway for travelers visiting other parts of Misiones Province or neighboring countries like Paraguay or Brazil due to its international airport offering direct flights to Buenos Aires as well as several regional destinations throughout South America.
Overall, Visitors can experience authentic Argentine culture combined with stunning natural beauty and a lively atmosphere in this charming destination whether they want to explore colonial history or relax in scenic parks while enjoying delicious food options before heading out for an exciting night on the town.
Important Landmarks
- Parque Nacional Iguazú (Iguazu National Park)
- Catedral de San José (Saint Joseph Cathedral)
- Costanera de Posadas (Posadas Waterfront)
- Museo Regional Aníbal Cambas (Anibal Cambas Regional Museum)
- Plaza 9 de Julio (9 de Julio Square)
- Casa de Horacio Quiroga (Horacio Quiroga’s House Museum)
- La Iglesia del Carmen (The Church of Our Lady of Carmen)
- Jardín Botánico y Zoológico Provincial (Provincial Botanical Garden and Zoo)
- Mirador del Paraná y Costanera Sur (Parana River Viewpoint and South Waterfront)
- Teatro Lírico del Parque del Conocimiento
Primary Industries
- Posadas, Argentina boasts a diverse economy with a variety of major industries and businesses.
- The city is well-known for its production of citrus fruits, tobacco, and yerba mate in the agriculture sector.
- Forestry plays an important role in Posadas’ economy with several sawmills processing timber from nearby forests.
- Manufacturing is another significant industry in Posadas with companies producing textiles, furniture, and food products.
- Tourism also contributes heavily to the local economy as visitors flock to the city for its natural beauty and cultural attractions.
- Posadas is home to several universities and educational institutions that make up an important part of the education sector.
- The city also has a well-developed health care system with many hospitals and clinics serving the local population.
- Retail trade is abundant in Posadas with numerous shops, supermarkets, and malls catering to both locals and tourists alike.
- Finally, the services sector encompasses banking, finance, transportation communication services among others which provide ample employment opportunities for residents of this vibrant city.
Noteable History
- The founding of Posadas in 1615 by Spanish conquistador Hernando Arias de Saavedra.
- The Battle of Mbororé in 1641, where the Guarani people defeated the Spanish army led by Governor Diego de los Reyes Balmaceda.
- The Jesuit Missions in the region, which were established in the 17th century to convert indigenous peoples to Christianity and protect them from slavery.
- The War of Independence from Spain (1810-1825), during which Posadas served as a strategic location for military operations.
- José Gervasio Artigas, a Uruguayan general who fought for independence from Spain and established a federalist government system that influenced Argentine politics.
- Andrés Guacurarí y Artigas, also known as Andresito, who was a leader during the War of Independence and later became governor of Misiones Province.
- Domingo Faustino Sarmiento, an Argentine statesman who served as president from 1868-1874 and is known for his efforts to modernize education in Argentina.
- Eva Perón (Evita), who visited Posadas several times during her political career as First Lady of Argentina in the mid-20th century.
- The construction of Yacyretá Dam on the Paraná River near Posadas in the late 20th century, which has had significant economic and environmental impacts on the region.
Museums and Things To See
- Museo Provincial de Bellas Artes Juan Yaparí: This museum showcases a collection of Argentinean art from the 19th and 20th centuries, including paintings, sculptures, and photographs.
- Parque del Conocimiento: This cultural complex includes a theater, a library, a planetarium, and an interactive science museum.
- Catedral de Posadas: The city’s main cathedral is an impressive neo-Gothic structure that dates back to the early 20th century.
- Monumento al General San Martín: This monument honors Argentina’s national hero José de San Martín and features a statue of him on horseback.
- Costanera de Posadas: A scenic waterfront promenade that offers stunning views of the Paraná River and its islands.
- Museo Histórico Regional Aníbal Cambas: This museum is located in an old Jesuit mission house and showcases the history of the region from pre-Columbian times to the present day.
- Plaza 9 de Julio: The city’s main square is surrounded by historic buildings such as the town hall, the post office, and several churches.
- Centro del Conocimiento Art Center: A contemporary art center that hosts exhibitions, performances, workshops, and other cultural events throughout the year.
- Museo Municipal Lucas Braulio Areco: A small but interesting museum dedicated to local history and culture with exhibits on indigenous peoples, colonialism, and more recent events in Posadas’ history.
- Puente Internacional San Roque González De Santa Cruz: A bridge connecting Argentina with Paraguay over Paraná river offering stunning views.
Sports Teams
- Club Atlético Huracán: Founded in 1912, Huracán is one of the oldest football clubs in Posadas. They have won several regional titles and currently play in the Liga Posadeña de Fútbol.
- Club Atlético Guaraní Antonio Franco: Also known as Guaraní A.F., this football club was founded in 1945 and has a strong rivalry with Huracán. They have won several regional titles and currently play in the Torneo Federal A.
- Misiones Basket: This basketball team was founded in 2014 and plays in the Liga Nacional de Básquetbol (LNB). They represent the province of Misiones and are based in Posadas.
- Regatas de Corrientes: Although not based directly in Posadas, Regatas de Corrientes is a successful basketball team that represents the neighboring province of Corrientes. They have won several national championships and regularly compete at the highest level of Argentine basketball.
- Club Atlético Bartolomé Mitre: This football club was founded in 1928 and has had a mixed history of successes and failures on both regional and national levels. They currently play alongside Huracán in the Liga Posadeña de Fútbol.
Cultural Events
- Fiesta Nacional del Inmigrante (National Immigrant Festival) – This annual festival celebrates the diverse cultural heritage of the city and its people.
- Carnaval de Posadas (Posadas Carnival) – This colorful and lively carnival is celebrated in February or March every year with parades, music, dance, and costumes.
- Festival Internacional de Cine de las Tres Fronteras (International Film Festival of the Three Borders) – This film festival showcases films from Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, and other countries in Latin America.
- Semana Santa (Holy Week) – Posadas celebrates Holy Week with religious processions and ceremonies that attract visitors from all over Argentina.
- Fiesta Nacional del Chamamé (National Chamamé Festival) – This festival celebrates the traditional music of northeastern Argentina known as chamamé with concerts, dance performances, and workshops.
- Expo Rural Posadas (Posadas Rural Expo) – This agricultural fair showcases local products such as fruits, vegetables, livestock, and handicrafts.
- Feria del Libro de Posadas (Posadas Book Fair) – Held annually in September or October, this book fair features local authors as well as national and international writers.
- Aniversario de la Ciudad de Posadas (Anniversary of the City of Posadas) – On December 12th each year, residents celebrate the founding of their city with parades and fireworks displays.
Cuisine
- Chipa: a traditional bread made from cassava starch and cheese.
- Asado: a barbecue-style dish featuring grilled meats like beef, pork, and chicken.
- Empanadas: savory turnovers filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables.
- Pacú: a type of fish found in the Paraná River that is often grilled or fried.
- Locro: a hearty stew made with corn, beans, meat, and vegetables.
Some popular restaurants in Posadas that serve these dishes include:
- La Querencia Parrilla & Restaurante
- El Quincho del Tío Querido
- El Rey del Chivito
- La Rueda Restaurant & Bar
- Don Lucas Parrilla Restaurant
Parks and Recreation
- Parque del Conocimiento offers cultural and recreational activities such as concerts, theater performances, and art exhibitions.
- Parque de la Ciudad features a lake where visitors can rent paddle boats or kayaks, walking trails, and picnic areas.
- Costanera de Posadas is a waterfront promenade perfect for jogging or cycling while enjoying views of the Paraná River.
- Plaza 9 de Julio is located in the city center surrounded by colonial buildings and features a fountain and sculptures.
- Jardín Botánico y Zoológico de Posadas showcases local flora & fauna including jaguars, monkeys, & parrots.
- Complejo Deportivo Municipal La Cantera offers facilities for soccer, basketball, volleyball, tennis, swimming & more sports.
- Club Náutico Posadas offers sailing lessons to members interested in learning how to sail boats on the Paraná River shorefront near downtown Posadas.
- Parque Provincial Salto Encantado is a nature reserve located about 60 km from Posadas featuring hiking trails leading to waterfalls with beautiful views of surrounding jungle scenery.
- Puerto Rico Beach Resort is a popular beach resort located about an hour’s drive from Posadas that attracts tourists during summer months with its white sand beaches on Rio Paraná.
- La Placita – Farmers Market is a famous farmers market in downtown posada where locals buy fresh fruits & vegetables along with other local produce like honey, cheese etc.