Jesuit Block and Estancias of Córdoba

On one city block, the Jesuit complex joins the Church of the Society of Jesus, the former Colegio Máximo, the priests' residence, the Domestic Chapel, and what is now Colegio Nacional de Monserrat. The plain stone church facade gives little warning of the Paraguayan-cedar vault inside, built like the inverted hull of a ship and covered with American Baroque decoration and gold leaf.

The Jesuits took possession of the block in 1599 and opened the Colegio Máximo in 1610. Their urban institutions were supplied by five rural estancias at Caroya, Jesús María, Santa Catalina, Alta Gracia, and La Candelaria, which supported education and missionary work through farming, livestock, workshops, and trade. The Jesuits were expelled in 1767. UNESCO listed the city block and five estancias together in 2000. Hours and admission vary by building, so use the individual child pins for practical details.