One of the key destinations along el camino de las estancias and a delight in itself, the Estancia Jesús Maria is located in an attractive setting 49 km (30.5 miles) north of Córdoba. The tours available at the estancia and adjoining museum provide a valuable insight into Jesuit history and allow you to walk throughout the dorms, workshops and pastures of the former missionaries.
The Compañía de Jesús bought the land and its animals in 1618 and two years later, with the work of 300 slaves, the estancia was built. As well as being a valuable agricultural site the estancia housed various different workshops that included, for example a carpentry, bakery and a smithy. The Jesuits who occupied the estancia made numerous significant intellectual contributions to the fields of agriculture, science and mathematics. Artifacts of these various works can be found throughout the estancia as can numerous religious relics and classic Jesuit pieces of artwork. Also known as Estancia San Isidro in honor of patron saint San Isidro Labrador, walks within the old granite walled courtyard and beautiful, peaceful surroundings are popular.
The estancia historically specialized in the production of wine in part to fund the University of Córdoba. It famously produced the first wine from the Americas to be served to the King of Spain. After being in private hands following the expulsion of Jesuits in 1767, the estancia and parts of its land were acquired by the Argentine government which declared it a National Historic Monument in 1941. The national museum has been declared by UNESCO as a Cultural Patrimony of Mankind.