Salta

Salta was founded on April 16, 1582, by the Spanish conquistador Hernando de Lerma. The city was established to provide a stopover between Lima, Peru and Buenos Aires, Argentina. It was a strategic location in the Viceroyalty of Peru. Salta's foundation played a significant role in the Spanish colonization efforts in the region, serving as an important administrative and military center.

The Battle of Salta occurred on February 20, 1813, during the Argentine War of Independence. It was fought between the revolutionary forces led by General Manuel Belgrano and the royalist Spanish forces. The battle resulted in a decisive victory for the revolutionaries, which helped to secure the northern part of Argentina for the independence cause. This victory was vital in boosting the morale of the revolutionary army.

On June 29, 1814, a significant earthquake struck Salta, causing widespread damage. Historical records describe it as one of the most violent earthquakes in the region during that time. While the exact magnitude is unknown, contemporary accounts detailed extensive destruction to buildings and infrastructure in the city. The earthquake highlighted the need for better architectural practices to withstand seismic events.

The San Bernardo Convent was officially founded on April 15, 1941. It is one of the most notable architectural monuments in Salta, preserving the colonial architecture of the city. The convent once served as a refuge for people seeking shelter during times of conflict. Today, it stands as a historic testament to the religious and colonial heritage of the region and continues to be a place of worship and tourism.

A devastating earthquake struck near Salta on September 4, 1948. The quake had a magnitude of 6.5 and caused significant damage to the city and surrounding areas. Many buildings were destroyed or severely damaged, and several fatalities were reported. The event prompted improvements in building codes and earthquake preparedness efforts in the region to mitigate future seismic risks.

On October 14, 1974, the Province of Salta in Argentina declared the legalization of coca leaf chewing, a traditional practice among indigenous peoples in the region. This decision was significant for cultural and social reasons, recognizing and respecting indigenous traditions. The legalization of coca leaf in Salta was a milestone in Argentine policies towards indigenous rights and traditional practices.

The Science and Technology Museum of Salta was inaugurated on November 9, 1995. This museum is dedicated to promoting scientific knowledge and education among the public. It features numerous exhibitions related to technology, physics, and the environment, designed to inspire curiosity and learning. The museum plays a vital role in educational outreach and community engagement within the region.

On July 16, 2004, Salta's historical quarter was officially declared a Cultural Heritage of Humanity site by UNESCO. This designation recognized the quarter's remarkable preservation of colonial architecture and its significance as an emblematic representation of Argentine historical and cultural identity. The region includes several significant landmarks, such as the Cabildo, the Cathedral, and various museums.

On March 14, 2010, the restoration of the Ermita de los Tres Pozos was completed. This site, a chapel with historical and cultural significance, is located in the outskirts of Salta. The restoration project aimed to preserve the structure while respecting its original colonial features. It has since become a point of interest for both locals and tourists, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of the region.

On May 10, 2017, the Teleférico San Bernardo was inaugurated in Salta. This cable car offers scenic views of the city and surrounding valleys, becoming a popular tourist attraction. The opening of the cable car marked a significant development in the city's tourism infrastructure, enhancing accessibility to San Bernardo Hill and providing a unique experience for visitors to Salta.