The Historic Center of Mendoza is the heart of the city and a district characterized by its many green spaces, galleries, museums and pavement cafés. Five leafy plazas dominate the daily activities of the Historic Center. These plazas were built following an earthquake in 1861 and serve as gathering points should high-magnitude tremors happen in the future.

Start at Independence Square, which has tree-shaded lawns and paved walkways that are illuminated by antique street lamps at night. Notable features are the Independence Square Fountain and a huge neon-lit coat of arms of the Province of Mendoza. The Municipal Museum of Modern Art has exhibitions by Argentine artists. Attend shows at the neoclassical Teatro Independencia and underground Julio Quintanilla Municipal Theater.

Four smaller plazas sit a short walk from the main square. Admire the Spanish-style mosaics and murals at Spain Square and a monument to Italian immigrants at Italy Square. Chile Square has a memorial to Argentine-Chilean amity. An equestrian statue of Argentine liberation hero José de San Martin dominates Plaza San Martin. Enjoy the picturesque scenery with a coffee or glass of wine in hand at the bars and cafés that frame the squares.

Watch as devotees lay offerings at a sacred image of the Virgin of Cuyo at the Basilica de San Francisco. See the relic of the original church, which was destroyed during the 1861 earthquake, at the Jesuit Ruins of San Francisco. The Merced Church impresses with its mannerist-stylefaçade.

The Museo Popular Callejero is a must-visit for fans of art and history. This permanent outdoor exhibition tells the evolution of Las Heras Avenue, one of the city’s most-important thoroughfares. Bask in Mendoza’s constant sunshine at Parque O’Higgins and spot marine life at the Municipal Aquarium.