Description

Cordoba, Argentina's second largest city with a population of 1.25 million, has become a recognized historic and cultural center due to its strategic location in the heart of the country. Nestled in the rolling foothills of the Sierras Chicas, yet having all the amenities of a modern, bustling city, Cordoba is perfect for outdoors enthusiasts and urbanites alike. The city also harbors some of Argentina's deepest cultural roots, such as a number of churches, convents and old houses dating from the 17th to the 19th centuries with remarkable artistic and architectonic value. Additionally, it was in this city that the country's first university was founded by the Jesuits in 1613, which is not only the oldest university in the country but also one of the first in Latin America.

The nearby lakes and rivers attract water sports enthusiasts from around the world, while local mountains and valleys are ideal for hiking, horseback riding, rock climbing, hand gliding, and other outdoor activities. This modern city, with its state-of-the-art shopping centers and 5-star hotels, stands out among other important capital cities worldwide. The Cordobes charm cannot be missed in the numerous nightlife activities, which include restaurants, shows, dance clubs, and pubs. In terms of industry, Cordoba is known for its automotive factories, cement and aeronautical production, oil and dairy manufacturing, among other businesses. Cordoba, with its warm and inviting inhabitants, offers students the unique experience of being fully integrated into Argentine lifestyle and customs.

Highlights

Cordoba is located in the heart of Argentina, in a fertile, agricultural area. Surrounded by the Pampas, and near the Sierras Chicas mountain range, the city provides the perfect setting for adventure sports and a scenic landscape of lakes, rivers, and valleys in the province.

Founded in 1573, before Buenos Aires, Cordoba was the first capital of Argentina, and now is arguably the country's second most important city in terms of commercial importance. Walking through the city center, visitors may feel like they have stepped back in time, especially as they walk through the Jesuit Block, or "Manzana Jesuitica", a block of historical buildings and monuments, including the National University of Cordoba, that date back to the 17th Century. However, modern architecture in the city's financial district is representative of the city's economic growth. Visitors can also enjoy a number of theaters, museums, parks and an active nightlife (it's known as "The City that Never Sleeps").

Argentines are versatile and expressive and have a passion for discussing politics. The majority of Argentines are descendants of Western European immigrants who traveled to Argentina in the mid 19th century. In addition to the strong European influence, there are still a few indigenous communities, the largest being the Mapuche, Guarani, Tobas and Matacos. About 3% of Argentina's 34.3 million people reside in the city of Cordoba.

The identity of Cordoba has been influenced by different waves of immigration. Politeness and respect are closely linked with informal treatment. The normal greeting of men and women is a kiss on the cheek. Smiles, hugs, closeness when speaking and gestures are the most common and friendly way of communication.

Something to note is the use of "vos" (you) instead of the Spanish "tu" for informal treatment, and the use of "che" to address a person. Additionally, the pronunciation of the "ll" or "y" in Argentine Spanish carries the "sh" sound. For example, "Como te llamas" will sound like "Como te shamas".

Mate, the characteristic porteno herbal tea infusion, mixes yerba mate with warm water, with or without sugar. This beverage is taken at any time of the day. Mate is a popular custom that has been a part of the culture of the Argentina since the middle of the XVI century.

Points of Interest in the City

Cordoba is known for its rich cultural roots and its surrounding picturesque landscapes. From the zoo to theaters, parks, museums and plazas, there is always something to do in the city that never sleeps. Musicians can often be seen and heard playing in the streets and many of the streets have been designed with pedestrians in mind, making a stroll through the city a safe and pleasant experience.

Perhaps the most notable place to visit in the city is the Jesuit Block, or Manzana Jesuitica. The Manzana Jesuitica was built in the 17th Century and contains the National University of Cordoba, one of the oldest in South America, and the oldest in Argentina, the Monserrat Secondary School, a church, crypt and residence buildings.

For locals or visitors looking for a place to relax in the city center, Plaza San Martin provides a leafy haven. Over four centuries old, this lively plaza features fairs and exhibitions, includes a statue of its namesake, General San Martin, as well as a colonial-style cathedral, a 17th-century cabildo (clubhouse), once used as the police headquarters.

Not far from downtown, Parque Sarmiento provides the perfect setting for an afternoon of fun and relaxation for families, couples, or anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. Paddle-boating on the lake, attending a concert at the Greek-style amphitheater, bike riding, skating, strolling through the flower gardens, visiting the fair grounds, or simply enjoying a picnic in the grass are some of the many activities for visitors of the park. The Cordoba Zoo is also a popular place to visit within the park, home to animals from around the world.

Art and music enthusiasts will likely find themselves at the Libertador Theater and concert hall, inaugurated in 1891. This Italian-style theater is the premier theater, concert hall, and opera house in Cordoba. The entirety of the theatre's materials, fabrics and machinery was imported from Europe.

In addition to the Libertador Theater, the Ferreyra Palace and Fine Arts Museum is one of the most popular places to visit for a glimpse of Argentine art. Palacio Ferreyra, a Beaux-Arts mansion designed by French architect Ernest Sanson, was built between 1912 and 1916 for Dr. Martin Ferreyra, a prominent local physician and surgeon, as well the owner of limestone quarries and the then-biggest lime factory in Argentina. It houses the fine arts museum, which maintains 12 exhibit halls, a sculpture garden, library, and an auditorium for 120. Its collection of over 500 works includes those by Emilio Caraffa, Juan Carlos Castagnino, Gustave Courbet, Fernando Fader, Francisco Goya, Emilio Pettoruti, Pablo Picasso, Joaquin Sorolla, Lino Enea Spilimbergo and Ricardo Supisiche, among others.

The Buen Pastor Cultural Center is a great place to learn about the city and country's cultural roots through art exhibitions, musical performances, a music fountain, and other activities. The walls and ceilings of the chapel are covered in paintings by the Cordobese painter Emilio Caraffa. Every hour the loudspeakers blast and the fountain dances for ten minutes, in the evening lit up by multicolored lamps. In between the hourly "agua danzantes", there are shops to check out like the well-stocked leather boutique alternating art expositions to enjoy, or restaurant to drink a cup of coffee.

Degree Level

Bachelors Degree (Undergraduate)

Minimum Education

High School

Subject Areas

Cost in US$:

Contact Sponsor

Program Fees Include:

* Pre-departure advising
* Tuition at host university
* Official transcript from host university
* On-site ISA office
* Full-time ISA resident staff
* On-site cultural and academic orientation
* Airport reception and transfers
* Student Housing
* Internet access
* Tutorial assistance
* Excursions
* Cultural Activities
* Medical insurance
* Student services
* Visa support

Experience Required

yes

Students must have completed or tested out of a minimum of five semesters (7 - 8 quarters) of college-level Spanish.

This Program is open to

American and Canadian Participants.

Typical Living Arrangements

• Home-stays

Participants Travel

Independently

Typically Participants Work

Independently

Scholarships are Available

The Dr. Carlos E. Castaneda Memorial Scholarship -20 x USD 750 for Summer Study -10 x USD 1,000 for Fall Study -10 x USD 1,000 for Winter/Spring Study -2 x USD 2,500 for Academic Year Study The Michaela Farnum Memorial Scholarship -5 x USD 1,000 for Fall Study -5 x USD 1,000 for Winter/Spring Study ISA Diversity Scholarships -2 x USD 1,000 for Summer Study -2 x USD 2,000 for Fall Study -2 x USD 2,000 for Winter/Spring Study

Application Process Involves

• Transcript
• Written Application

Post Services Include

• Alumni Network
• Exit Debriefing Abroad
• Re-Entry Debriefing at Home

ISA (International Studies Abroad)'s Mission Statement

To provide high quality education abroad opportunities to American and Canadian college students at an affordable price. We recognize that we play an important role in the worldwide effort of international educators to increase individuals' awareness of cultures and societies outside of their own national boundaries.

Year Founded

1987