Nuestra Señora de Santa Ana

The Jesuit reduction of Nuestra Señora de Santa Ana is located in today's Misiones Province and stands as an impressive testimony to missionary work in the 17th and 18th centuries. Originally founded in 1633, the mission had to be moved to its current location in 1660 due to attacks by Portuguese Bandeirantes. The complex was constructed according to a strict geometric plan around a central plaza, flanked by the church, the cemetery, Guaraní dwellings, and workshops. At its peak in 1744, the reduction housed over 4,300 inhabitants who lived within a complex system of communal agriculture and crafts. Following the expulsion of the Jesuits by the Spanish Crown in 1767, the settlement gradually fell into decay and was reclaimed by the dense subtropical forest. Today, the ruins of the monumental church and drainage systems have been partially excavated and restored. Along with other Jesuit missions of the Guaraní, Santa Ana was added to the UNESCO World Heritage list in 1984, offering visitors a deep insight into Argentina's colonial religious history.

Nearby cities

Hohenau

A place strongly influenced by German immigrants, forming part of the United Colonies in the south of the country.

Obligado

As the industrial capital of the region, Obligado is an important pillar of yerba mate production.

Bella Vista

This picturesque center of the mate tea industry impresses with its large plantations and quiet atmosphere.

Capitán Miranda

A multicultural municipality near Encarnación, known for its exceptionally productive horticulture.

Cambyretá

As a neighboring city of Encarnación, Cambyretá is popular for its beautiful riverbanks and quiet residential neighborhoods.

Encarnación

The 'Pearl of the South' is famous for its river promenade on the Paraná and the spectacular annual carnival.

Posadas

The capital of Misiones province, sitting on the Paraná River, with a blend of regional culture and modern life.

Oberá

Known as the city of immigrants, reflecting diverse cultural traditions in Misiones province.

Tomás Romero Pereira

Popularly known as Maria Auxiliadora, this city is famous for its intensive carrot cultivation.

Coronel Bogado

The self-proclaimed capital of chipa, Paraguay's famous corn and cheese bread, attracting visitors with its traditional bakery goods.

San Pedro del Paraná

One of the oldest cities in Itapúa, characterized by rolling hills, expansive lands, and traditional equestrian sports.

History & landmarks

San Ignacio Miní

Well-preserved remains of a Jesuit mission, providing insight into 17th-century missionary life.

Trinidad

The best-preserved Jesuit reduction in Paraguay and a UNESCO World Heritage site of exceptional beauty.

Jesús de Tavarangue

An unfinished jewel of Jesuit architecture featuring unique Moorish influences and UNESCO status.

More places

Cross Theme Park

A nature and theme park in the Misiones rainforest featuring a butterfly house and family-friendly trails.

Nuestra Señora de Loreto

A former Jesuit reduction site, significant for its historical influence on the indigenous population.

Santa María la Mayor

One of the Jesuit missions in the Misiones region, showcasing historical architecture and cultural preservation.

Yerba Mate Route

An agricultural and cultural route through the plantations in Misiones, where Argentina's national drink is grown.

Misiones Rainforest

A subtropical rainforest in northeastern Argentina with enormous biodiversity.

Urugua-í Wildlife Reserve

A dense jungle corridor providing shelter for jaguars and tapirs while conserving the Atlantic Rainforest.

San Rafael Hills

A rolling hill area in southern Paraguay, part of an important ecological corridor.

San Rafael Reserve

One of the most important forest reserves in Paraguay, hosting enormous biodiversity.