Córdoba is located in the heart of Argentina, in a fertile, agricultural area. Surrounded by the Pampas, and near the Sierras Chicas mountain range, the city provides the perfect setting for adventure sports and a scenic landscape of lakes, rivers, and valleys in the province. Founded in 1573, before Buenos Aires, Córdoba was the first capital of Argentina, and now is arguably the country's second most important city in terms of commercial importance.

Walking through the city center, visitors may feel like they have stepped back in time, especially as they walk through the Jesuit Block, or "Manzana Jesuitica", a block of historical buildings and monuments, including the National Univeristy of Córdoba, that date back to the 17th Century. However, modern architecture in the city's financial district is representative of the city's economic growth. Visitors can also enjoy a number of theaters, museums, parks, and an active nightlife (it's known as "The City that Never Sleeps").

Argentines are versatile and expressive and have a passion for discussing politics. The majority of Argentines are descendants of Western European immigrants who traveled to Argentina in the mid 19th century. In addition to the strong European influence, there are still a few indigenous communities, the largest being the Mapuche, Guaraní, Tobas and Matacos. About 3% of Argentina's 34.3 million people reside in the city of Córdoba.

The identity of Córdoba has been influenced by different waves of immigration. Politeness and respect are closely linked with informal treatment. The normal greeting of men and women is a kiss on the cheek. Smiles, hugs, closeness when speaking and gestures are the most common and friendly way of communication. Something to note is the use of "vos" (you) instead of the Spanish "tú" for informal treatment, and the use of "che" to address a person. Additionally, the pronunciation of the "ll" or "y" in Argentine Spanish carries the "sh" sound. For example, "Como te llamas" will sound like "Como te shamas".

Córdoba lies in the center of Argentina, in the foothills of the Sierras Chicas, on the Suquía River.

It is the second-largest city in Argentina, next to Buenos Aires, with a population of 1.3 million people.

The climate of Córdoba is moderated by the pampas winds, which blow in from Antarctica. The city receives less rainfall than the capital, Buenos Aires, but has a greater range of temperatures due to its altitude. The fall is warm, with mostly sunny days and some rain. Winter is cold and dry. In spring and summer the weather is humid and rain is more frequent. The mean annual temperature is 18º C (64.4º F), making extremely hot and cold days infrequent. Thus, visitors can enjoy walking around the city in any season.

June and July are the coldest months. Although frosts are rare, you may want a woolen coat, a jacket or an overcoat and a scarf when going out. In winter, cold is moderate during the day, but the temperature drops considerably at night. In the summer, mornings are warm, and during midday and the first hours of the afternoon, the temperature rises. At night, the temperature goes down slightly, so people may wear light clothes; coats are not needed.

Average monthly highs and lows (degrees Fahrenheit) and rainfall (inches)

• Argentine Ministry of Tourism
• About Argentina
  
• UNESCO World Heritage Center - Argentina