Today was a fun-packed day! We woke up early to start a walking tour of Córdoba, thanks to Laura. We walked through the pedestrian shopping district and ended up in Plaza San Martin, where we boarded a city tour bus! Mary-Sue, Emily, Gabe, and I got the pleasure of sitting at the top of the bus – the weather was perfect. We toured all around Córdoba, and I really enjoyed exploring areas close to the university and the adjacent park. I learned that the three public universities in Córdoba are free, which is amazing. The architecture here is fascinating – between the European-style buildings and near brutalism, there’s quite a mixed bag.
After the tour, we explored a little more and got to see two gorgeous churches. The Gothic church was especially beautiful, and we got to witness the last couple minutes of afternoon mass. By then everyone was starving. We headed outside the city to Laura’s house, where she and her husband graciously fed us an amazing meal and gave us incredible hospitality. It was such an amazing meal and overall experience. I loved hanging out with Valentín, even if we had a major language barrier. We all rested in the backyard after ribs, steak, chorizo, salad, and ice cream for dessert. Needless to say, I was no longer hangry.
Our last stop of the day was Los Caruchines, a non-profit organization that provides after-school tutoring, a place to play, and community support. It was interesting and sad to hear that many children and families in that area were lacking just basic needs – clothes, mattresses, food, etc. The selflessness of Micela and David was admirable, given that they have had to dig into their own pockets to keep the place up and running. I was happy to buy a shirt from them knowing the funds are going directly to those in need. While we were there, we learned how to make traditional mate! The process was super interesting, and while I didn’t necessarily love the taste, I appreciate the significance it has in Argentine culture. It really grew on Javon, though. He kept going back for more.
