Plaza San Martin
Address:
Description:
Cordoba's lively focal point is the downtown Plaza San Martin, crisscrossed by busy paths and planted with handsome trees and shrubs, including lofty palms and squat palo borrachos with their prickly trunks. All eyes look towards the west flank of the square, which is fully pedestrianized. Here the city's imposing Cathedral, mostly dating from the 18th century, dominates the southwest corner, with its bulbous cupola and striking wrought iron gates. Look for the baroque angels decorating each corner – their features betray the native craftsmen who fashioned them. Inside fabulous Italianate frescoes and fine paintings adorn the gloomy nave and soaring inner dome while an intricate baroque pulpit attracts the eye as does the handsome Belgian flooring. The neighboring Cabildo (colonial HQ), adding further elegance to the plaza with its curving arches and pristine whitewashed walls, houses the tourist office and a fine patio, where tango and other entertainments are frequently laid on.