San Francisco de Laishi
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In the southeastern part of the province of Formosa sits San Francisco de Laishi, a small town with an interesting past. It was originally founded in 1901, by Fray Pedro Iturralde, after an Indian Mission was founded nearby in 1900. The mission’s aim was to teach the indigenous about different work methods and to “civilize” them, as well as providing the industries necessary for development. The town was founded with similar aims, as a mission. Under President Juan Domingo Perón, however, these goals were dissolved, and they no longer serve as indigenous missions, although they agreed to continue to provide spiritual services to the inhabitants of the area.
San Francisco de Laishi, Formosa
In the early years of the city, houses were built of the local material, palm, as was the chapel, which doubled as a school to teach the indigenous writing, reading, and the Catholic religion. A sugar mill was also established, which produced sugar, corn flour, molasses, and cigars. The mill, which was built by the hands of the native population, ceased production in 1946, although it still stands today.
The town was built in stages, and eventually developed all the needed services. The Franciscan Convent is, today, a National Historical Monument. Part of the convent is a museum now, which holds a shrine, bows and arrows, cannonballs and other police artifacts, and the Baptismal Book of the Indigenous Missions of the Franciscan Brothers. The mission and its museum are the largest tourist attraction in town, and it stands majestically over the square near the center of town.
The town of San Francisco de Laishi today has all the provisions and services necessary, and is home to around 5,000 people, according to the last census. Today, it is home to a wooded park, and many of the buildings still maintain the same colonial flavor that it did 100 years ago, all in harmony with the enchanting calm that fills the streets.
Formosa, as a province, is a wonderful place to visit, and this specific town is one that will provide you with a break from the road, a look into quiet, small-town life. A river cuts through the otherwise flat surrounding land, and the riverbanks are lush areas, populated by a variety of flora and fauna. The town has been declared an Ecological Municipality.
The area around the town is rich in different sights and activities, such as horseback riding, hiking, and even fishing. This corner of the province is well connected with paved roads, so you can easily reach the different points of interest, such as the Isla de Oro, and Laguna de Oca — perfect for day trips.
The town of San Francisco de Laishi is reached by routes 11 and 1 from the city of Formosa, about 77 kilometers away. Check of other great places to visit in the northeast region in this Argentina travel guide.