Plizio Visual Lab
Belén
ℹ️Practical info — Belén
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🌤 Weather — 5 days
📍 Nearby
Sights nearby
💡 Tips
- Visit the local weaving cooperatives for which the 'Cradle of the Poncho' is known.
- Summers get very hot; it's best to explore the area early in the morning.
- Climb up to the Nuestra Señora de Belén viewpoint.
- Bus connections can be infrequent; check schedules in advance.
🍽 Food
Layered meat dish - Try it in traditional restaurants around town.
Candied walnuts - Find them in local bakeries.
Taste them in small local bodegas.
🛍 Shopping · 🧘 Quiet spots
At artisan stalls along Route 40.
In specialized craft shops.
A peaceful walk along the river.
A shady spot for a break.
Water temperature…
Belén, located in the heart of Catamarca Province, is one of the oldest and most historic towns in northwestern Argentina. It was founded on December 20, 1681, by Priest Bartolomé de Olmos y Aguilera, positioned in a fertile valley surrounded by the rugged foothills of the Andes. Belén is widely celebrated as the "Cradle of the Poncho" due to its centuries-old tradition of artisanal weaving using sheep and vicuña wool. Nearby, the archaeological site of Shincal de Quimivil reveals the area's pre-Columbian significance as a major provincial capital of the Inca Empire. Today, the town's economy is supported by traditional crafts, walnut production, and mining. Situated along the legendary Route 40, Belén serves as a vital gateway for travelers exploring the arid highland deserts and the majestic mountain ranges of the Catamarca region.
- Location: Argentina
- Top sights: Cubo Blanco Móvil · Virgen
- Nearby: Andalgalá (79 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Oct–Dec.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 20 | 19 | 17 | 14 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 11 | 13 | 16 | 18 | 19 |
| Rain mm | 115 | 99 | 72 | 47 | 16 | 11 | 4 | 3 | 13 | 30 | 59 | 92 |
Geography
Facts
- Belén was officially founded on December 20, 1681.
- The Shincal de Quimivil Inca site is located just 6 km from the town.
- The city is formally recognized as the 'Cradle of the Poncho'.
- Belén is situated at an elevation of 1,255 meters above sea level.
- The religious festival of the Virgin of Belén is celebrated every January.
- The Belén department is the largest producer of walnuts in Argentina.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Belén (2)
Frequently asked questions
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Nearby cities
