population: 0.15 million

extension: 684 square kilometers

Museums

If you're in San Fernando del Valle de Catamarca and want to visit museums, a great option would be Museo de Bellas Artes Laureano Brizuela. It's located in the city center and features a collection of Argentine art from the 19th and 20th centuries.

If you're interested in visiting other museums of a similar type nearby, you can head to the city of Salta, which is about 300 km away. There you can visit the Museo de Arte Contemporáneo de Salta (MAC) and the Museo de Arte Contemporáneo Florencio Molina Campos (MAAM), both of which feature contemporary art exhibits. Additionally, you can visit the Museo de Arqueología de Alta Montaña (MAAM), which has a collection of Incan artifacts.

Food

Some of the most recommended, popular, and typical dishes to eat in San Fernando del Valle de Catamarca, according to local people, include:

1. Locro: a hearty stew made with corn, beans, meat, and vegetables, often served during festivals and special occasions.

2. Empanadas: a pastry filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables, and baked or fried until crispy.

3. Tamal: a dish similar to Mexican tamales, made with masa (corn dough) and filled with meat, vegetables, or cheese, then steamed in a corn husk.

4. Carbonada: a slow-cooked beef stew made with potatoes, pumpkin, and other vegetables, flavored with spices like cumin and paprika.

5. Humita: a sweet or savory corn pudding, often served as a side dish or snack.

6. Chicha: a fermented corn drink that is slightly sweet and tangy, often served as a refreshing beverage.

These dishes are all part of the traditional cuisine of the region and are widely enjoyed by locals and visitors alike.

Activities

Sure! Here are some fun activities that local people enjoy in San Fernando del Valle de Catamarca:

1. Visit the Plaza 25 de Mayo: This beautiful square is the heart of the city and a popular gathering place for locals. It's surrounded by historic buildings, fountains, and gardens.

2. Explore the Paseo de la Fe: This pedestrian street is lined with shops, restaurants, and bars. It's a great place to stroll, people-watch, and soak up the local atmosphere.

3. Hike in the nearby mountains: Catamarca is known for its stunning natural beauty, and there are many hiking trails in the surrounding hills and mountains. The Cerro El Crestón and Cerro Ancasti are popular options.

4. Enjoy the local cuisine: Catamarca has a rich culinary tradition, and locals love to eat at traditional restaurants like La Casa de las Empanadas or El Patio de los Naranjos. Don't miss trying the local specialty, locro, a hearty stew made with corn, beans, and meat.

5. Attend a cultural event: San Fernando del Valle de Catamarca has a vibrant cultural scene, with frequent festivals, concerts, and art exhibitions. Check out what's happening at the Centro Cultural El Jardín or the Teatro del Sur.