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Day Nine: Argentina – Cordoba, A bustling second city

It was restored but unfortunately while the restoration provided a glimpse of history much of the truth seemed missing. The central palace too had undergone major modern refurbishment hinting at a contradiction in terms of maintaining architectural heritage….

Arriving at a bustling bus terminal correctly indicates this as the second largest city, Cordoba. The university town near the middle of Argentina close to the entrance of the wine country is built across flat fields of an agricultural economy. Stepping first onto the main street circling the city the yellow taxis mark an emblem for Cordoba. An army of these yellow vehicles line every street and prepare for onslaught at each junction.

On initial inspection among semi-rise new builds and spontaneous coffee bars are grandiose buildings marking Argentine heritage – a mix of historic cultures paraded around the main square – Plaza San Martin. By 9am the day’s heat is evidently creeping towards the 30’s as locals reach for the shade cigarette in hand on the way to work.

Like any cosmopolitan city the population strides smart phone in hand, slurping on juice, Coke or 7Up with the odd citizen chomping ice-cream and snacks.

Clearly a shopping centre – Argentine’s wonder the streets among avenue after avenue of electronic, clothes, shows and most importantly sunglasses shops. The centre is built around a network of 4 x4 streets of shops.

Follow the journey

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