population: 0.12 million

extension: 1709.7 square kilometers

Museums

If you are in Rafaela, Argentina and interested in visiting museums, one place you might consider is the Museo Histórico Municipal "Dr. José M. Cullen", which showcases the history of the region from prehistoric times to the present day through a variety of exhibits and collections.

Other museums in the area that you might be interested in exploring include the Museo de Arte Juan Yaparí, which features a diverse collection of contemporary art from local and international artists, and the Museo Municipal de Bellas Artes "Dr. Urbano Poggi", which showcases works by Argentine and Latin American artists from the 19th and 20th centuries.

If you're willing to travel a bit, you might also consider visiting the Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes in Buenos Aires, which is home to one of the most extensive collections of Argentine art in the world, or the Museo de la Memoria in Rosario, which is dedicated to preserving the memory of the victims of state terrorism during Argentina's "Dirty War".

Food

Rafaela, like many other cities in Argentina, has a rich culinary tradition that includes a range of dishes and flavors. Some of the most recommended and popular dishes among locals include:

1. Asado: This is a classic Argentine barbecue dish that typically features grilled beef or other meats, such as chorizo (sausage), morcilla (blood sausage), and chinchulines (intestines).

2. Empanadas: These are savory pastries filled with meat, cheese, vegetables, or a combination of these ingredients.

3. Milanesa: This is a breaded and fried cutlet of beef, chicken, or pork that is typically served with mashed potatoes, fries, or salad.

4. Locro: This is a hearty stew made with corn, beans, meat, and other vegetables, and is often served during national holidays and other special occasions.

5. Churros: These are long, thin doughnuts that are coated in sugar and cinnamon, and are typically eaten for breakfast or as a dessert.

6. Alfajores: These are sandwich cookies filled with dulce de leche, a caramel-like spread that is ubiquitous in Argentine cuisine.

7. Mate: While not technically a dish, mate is a traditional Argentine beverage that is made by steeping dried yerba mate leaves in hot water. It's often enjoyed as a social activity, with friends and family sharing the drink from a communal gourd and straw.

Activities

There are plenty of fun activities that local people in Rafaela enjoy. Here are some recommendations:

1) Visit the Plaza 25 de Mayo, which is a central square and a popular gathering spot for locals. You can grab a coffee or an ice cream and people-watch while enjoying the beautiful scenery.

2) Explore the Parque Ecológico de Rafaela, which is a nature reserve located on the outskirts of the city. It's a great place to go hiking, birdwatching, or have a picnic.

3) Check out the Feria Franca de Rafaela, a farmer's market that takes place every Saturday morning in Plaza 25 de Mayo. Here you can find locally grown produce, homemade cheeses, and other artisanal products.

4) Catch a game at the Estadio Nuevo Monumental, home to Club Atlético Rafaela, a professional soccer team. The atmosphere is electric during games, and it's a great way to experience the local passion for sports.

5) Take a guided tour of Rafaela's historic downtown, where you can learn about the city's rich history and architecture.