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Historical places #3 in Salta

Monument General Martin Miguel de Guemes

4.6 · 25,351 reviews
Solemn and respectful with a strong sense of regional identity.
Monument General Martin Miguel de Guemes, Av. Uruguay, A4400 Salta, Argentina
Interesting facts
1

The monument was inaugurated in 1931 to mark the 110th anniversary of the General's death.

2

General Güemes is the only Argentine general to die in combat during the independence conflict.

3

The statue depicts Güemes riding his horse while pointing toward the path his gaucho militia used to harass Spanish invaders.

4

The pedestal is built using stones from the nearby hills, reflecting the rugged terrain where the 'Gaucho War' was fought.

5

The site hosts an annual vigil on the night of June 16th to honor the General's passing.

6

Gaucho associations from across the country gather here annually in traditional attire to pay respects.

Overview

The Monument to General Martín Miguel de Güemes commemorates the leader of the 'Gaucho War' who defended northern Argentina against royalist forces during the War of Independence. Situated at the foot of Cerro San Bernardo, the structure features a prominent bronze equestrian statue of Güemes atop a massive stone pedestal. The memorial stands in the location where the General was wounded in 1821 before his eventual death. The site serves as the central focal point for local historical commemorations and gaucho traditions in Salta. The monument is constructed primarily from stone sourced from the surrounding mountains, integrating the aesthetic of the landscape into its design. It remains the most significant tribute to the only Argentine general killed in action during the War of Independence.

Photo spot

From the lower park steps, framing the equestrian statue against the backdrop of the San Bernardo hillside.

Insider tips

Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Cerro San Bernardo summit via the cable car.

Visit during the evening to see the monument illuminated, which highlights the texture of the stone pedestal.

Allow time to walk the surrounding park grounds, which offer expansive views of the city skyline.

What to avoid

Do not attempt to climb the monument structure, as it is a protected historical site.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
30-45 minutes
Best time to visit
Late afternoon to catch the sunset, as the west-facing monument is bathed in golden light.
Address
Monument General Martin Miguel de Guemes, Av. Uruguay, A4400 Salta, Argentina
-24.787, -65.399
Get directions
Details
Architectural StyleMonumental stone and bronze sculpture
Historical SignificanceCommemorates the Gaucho War and Argentine independence

Frequently asked

Plan for about 30-45 minutes to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Late afternoon to catch the sunset, as the west-facing monument is bathed in golden light..

From the lower park steps, framing the equestrian statue against the backdrop of the San Bernardo hillside.

Close by you'll find San Bernardo's Hill, July 9th Square, San Martin Park.