Salta history

The city of Salta, located in northwestern Argentina, boasts a rich history closely tied to the colonial era and the struggle for independence. Its foundation and development were dictated by the strategic and economic interests of the Spanish Empire in South America.

Salta was founded on April 16, 1582, by the Spanish conquistador Hernando de Lerma, under the orders of the Viceroy of Peru. The original full name of the city was "The Very Noble and Loyal City of San Felipe de Lerma in the Valley of Salta." The main objective of its creation was to establish a strategic outpost between the wealthy mining city of Potosí and the Atlantic port of Buenos Aires. This was a crucial step in strengthening Spanish control over trade routes and protecting them from attacks by indigenous peoples.

The development of Salta was determined by several key factors. Its advantageous geographical position in the fertile Lerma Valley, at an altitude of about 1,187 metres at the foot of the Andes, provided favourable conditions for agriculture and served as a natural crossroads for trade routes. Thanks to this, Salta quickly became an important commercial hub through which caravans carrying goods—primarily silver from Potosí destined for Buenos Aires—passed. In the opposite direction, mules, food supplies, and artisanal products were transported. Furthermore, during the Argentine War of Independence in the early 19th century, Salta played a key role as a strategic bastion on the northern border, holding back Royalist forces advancing from Upper Peru.

From the very beginning, Salta was shaped as a city with a distinct Spanish colonial culture. This is reflected in its architecture: numerous buildings from the 17th and 18th centuries, churches, and monasteries have survived to this day, earning the city the nickname "La Linda" (The Beautiful). The city's economy was agrarian and commercial. Mule breeding flourished here, as mules were the primary "means of transport" of that time in the mountainous terrain, along with food production to supply the mining regions. Cultural life was centred around the church, which played a central role in society.

Key Milestones in Salta's History

The history of Salta is a kaleidoscope of events, from its colonial foundation to its transformation into a major cultural and tourist centre in northwestern Argentina. The city played a pivotal role in the struggle for independence and, over time, witnessed significant economic and social changes.

• 1582 — On April 16, Spanish conquistador Hernando de Lerma founds the city under the name "San Felipe de Lerma in the Valley of Salta" to create a strategic point between Lima and Buenos Aires.
• 1813 — On February 20, the Patriot army commanded by General Manuel Belgrano wins a decisive victory over the Royalists in the Battle of Salta, marking a significant step towards Argentine independence.
• 1815 — Local military leader Martín Miguel de Güemes is elected Governor of Salta, becoming the first governor elected without the intervention of Buenos Aires.
• 1816–1821 — Under the leadership of General Güemes, Salta becomes the main stronghold of resistance against Royalist invasions from the north, waging a successful guerrilla "Gaucho War."
• 1821 — On June 17, General Martín Miguel de Güemes dies from wounds received in battle, becoming the only Argentine general to fall during the War of Independence.
• 1882 — In honour of the city's tricentennial, a new Cathedral is erected in the Neoclassical style.
• 1890 — The railway arrives in the city, stimulating economic development and trade after decades of decline.
• 1921 — Construction begins on the C-14 railway branch, which would later become known as the route of the "Train to the Clouds" (Tren a las Nubes).
• 1948 — On February 20, the official inauguration of the Salta–Antofagasta railway line takes place, connecting Argentina with Chile across the Andes.
• 1972 — The railway line receives tourist status and the name "Train to the Clouds" (Tren a las Nubes), transforming into one of the region's main attractions.
• 1974 — The National University of Salta (Universidad Nacional de Salta) is founded, strengthening the city's status as an educational hub in the northwest of the country.

Stages of Development and Transformation of Salta

The development of the city of Salta followed a unique path, where periods of rapid economic growth alternated with isolation, which paradoxically helped preserve its unique architectural appearance. Here are the key milestones that defined the modern look and status of the city:

• Rise of a Trade Hub (17th–18th Centuries). Thanks to its location on the route from the Viceroyalty of Peru to the port of Buenos Aires, the city became a thriving centre of trade. Thousands of mules wintered and were sold here for the mining operations in Potosí. This period laid the city's economic foundation and allowed for the construction of wealthy mansions and temples that formed its colonial core.
• Creation of the Intendancy of Salta del Tucumán (1782). As part of administrative reforms in Argentina (then part of Spanish possessions), the city became the capital of a vast territory. This elevated its political status, attracted officials and the cultural elite, cementing Salta's role as a regional leader.
• Economic Reorientation (Early 19th Century). The War of Independence severed trade ties with Upper Peru (Bolivia). The loss of its main export market led to economic stagnation. However, it was precisely the lack of funds for large-scale urban redevelopment during this period that saved the colonial architecture from demolition, unlike in many other Argentine cities.
• Arrival of the Railway (1890). Connection to the national railway network and a direct link to Buenos Aires breathed new life into the city. This event stimulated an influx of immigrants from Europe and the Levant (Spain, Italy, Syria), who introduced new cultural traditions and architectural styles, particularly Italian Neoclassicism.
• Construction of the C-14 "Huaytiquina" Branch (1921–1948). The realisation of a grandiose engineering project to lay a railway across the Andes to the Chilean border (now known as the "Train to the Clouds" route). The construction not only provided jobs but, in the long term, opened the region to international trade and tourism.
• "Neocolonial" Urban Policy (Mid-20th Century). Unlike the modernist trends of the time, Salta's authorities made a conscious decision to support the historical style. Tax incentives were introduced for buildings in the colonial style, leading to the emergence of "Neocolonial" architecture that harmoniously complements the ancient structures.
• Tourism Renaissance (Late 20th – 21st Century). The final consolidation of the "Salta La Linda" (Salta the Beautiful) brand. The city bet on tourism as the engine of the economy, investing in the restoration of the historic centre, the development of hotel infrastructure, and museums (such as the Museum of High Altitude Archaeology), becoming the main gateway to the northwest of the country.

The architectural appearance of Salta is one of the main reasons the city bears the nickname "La Linda" ("The Beautiful"). Here, well-preserved colonial heritage harmoniously combines with elegant structures from the period of economic prosperity, making a walk through the city a true journey through time.

Colonial Era: Spanish Baroque

Since its founding in 1582, Salta was developed according to the typical Spanish colonial principle—with a rectangular grid of streets centred around a main square. The architecture of this period represents a vivid example of Spanish Colonial Baroque, adapted to local conditions and materials. Buildings were constructed from adobe, featured thick walls, internal courtyards (patios) for protection from the heat, and covered galleries with arches.

A key building of this era is the Cabildo (Town Hall)—one of the best-preserved colonial town halls in Argentina. Its long arcades and simple yet monumental structure serve as a hallmark of the historic centre. Another iconic monument is the San Bernardo Convent, one of the oldest buildings in the city, famous for its carved wooden portal in the Baroque style, created in 1762.

19th Century: Neoclassicism and Italian Influence

After gaining independence and with the arrival of economic prosperity in the late 19th century, Salta's architecture was enriched with new styles. During this period, Neoclassicism and eclecticism with strong Italian influence dominated, linked to the wave of immigration from Europe. The city's two most famous temples are striking representatives of this era.

The Cathedral of Salta, built in the second half of the 19th century on the site of an old church destroyed by an earthquake, is a majestic building in the style of Italian Neo-Baroque and Neoclassicism. Its recognisable soft pink façade and richly decorated interior with a gilded altar make it the dominant feature of the central square. The Church of San Francisco, in turn, impresses with its spectacular terracotta façade and 54-metre bell tower—the highest in South America. Its style combines late Baroque with Italianised elements added during 19th-century renovations.

Modern Development and Heritage Preservation

In the 20th and 21st centuries, the city grew significantly; however, its urban development focused on preserving the unique historic centre. New construction takes place primarily away from the colonial core, allowing Salta to avoid chaotic modernisation and maintain its authentic atmosphere. Thanks to this approach, the historic centre around 9th of July Plaza remains a cohesive architectural ensemble, protected as a national heritage site and attracting travellers from all over the world.

Distinguished Personalities of Salta

The city of Salta, one of the cultural and historical hubs of northwestern Argentina, has been the birthplace or home to many iconic figures who left a significant mark on the country's history, politics, and arts.

• Martín Miguel de Güemes (1785–1821) — National hero of Argentina, General. A key figure in the War of Independence. As Governor of Salta, he organised and led a guerrilla movement of gauchos, known as the "Gaucho War," which successfully held back the advance of Spanish Royalists from the north. Güemes is the only Argentine general to have fallen in battle during the war. His strategy was decisive for the success of General San Martín's campaign.
• José Evaristo Uriburu (1831–1914) — Politician, President of Argentina (1895–1898). Born in Salta into an aristocratic family. Having served as Vice President, he became Head of State following the resignation of Luis Sáenz Peña. During his administration, constitutional reforms were implemented, the National Museum of Fine Arts was founded in Buenos Aires, and the army was reorganised.
• Juana Manuela Gorriti (1818–1892) — Writer, journalist, women's rights advocate. One of the most significant South American writers of the 19th century. Born in the province of Salta, she spent much of her life in exile in Bolivia and Peru. In her works and public activities, she addressed themes of women's education and the role of women in society. She was also the First Lady of Bolivia.
• Gustavo "Cuchi" Leguizamón (1917–2000) — Composer, pianist, lawyer. One of the greatest innovators of Argentine folklore. He blended traditional rhythms, such as the zamba and chacarera, with complex harmonies inspired by classical music and jazz. In collaboration with the poet Manuel Castilla, he created many iconic songs that became classics of Argentine music.
• Manuel José Castilla (1918–1980) — Poet and journalist. One of the central figures of Salta's literary scene in the 20th century and founder of the literary group "La Carpa." His poetry is deeply rooted in the landscapes and people of northwestern Argentina. Many of his poems were set to music by Gustavo Leguizamón, bringing them nationwide fame.
• Dino Saluzzi (born 1935) — Bandoneon player and composer. A world-renowned musician who took the sound of the bandoneon beyond traditional tango, merging it with folklore, jazz, and avant-garde music. His work has received international acclaim thanks to recordings on the prestigious European label ECM.
• Juan Carlos Dávalos (1887–1959) — Writer and poet. A prominent representative of regionalism in Argentine literature. In his stories, poems, and plays, he masterfully depicted the life, customs, and nature of Salta and the Andean region, using local colour and dialects.