Mendoza’s Old Colonial District

　　   The Old Colonial District (Pedro del Castillo) is the central area of the colonial town established in 1561. The reconstructed area was completed in 1993 and includes Pedro del Castillo Square, the Former Mayor’s Main Square, Iglesia Matriz Cathedral, a museum, a courthouse, five sculptural models, as well as basements and their archaeological sites.

　　   This area was once the religious and social center for the people of Cuyo. However, the earthquake of 1861 almost completely destroyed the district. It was rebuilt and landscaped in 1885, and further transformed during the 1930s and 1970s.

　　   After enduring much “hardship,” the area has taken shape as a rectangular district extending from Pedro del Castillo Square to Parque Bernardo O'Higgins and Sarmiento Square. It is surrounded by Ituzaingó, Beltrán, and Alberdi Streets, as well as Avenida Acceso and the Cacique Guaymallén Canal. Among these, Alberdi Street is a pleasant pedestrian area for shopping and leisure.