Santa María la Mayor Jesuit ruins

A mission founded in 1626

The Jesuits founded Santa María la Mayor in 1626, together with the Guaraní people. In 1744 it had 993 inhabitants. After the Jesuits were expelled from the Spanish dominions in 1767, the town was abandoned and fell into ruins. Many missions in the region were destroyed during the wars of 1817. Knowing these dates helps you read the ruins: they are the remains of a town that has not been inhabited for more than two centuries.

What you can see on site

The ruins are about 300 meters from the visitor center. What remains are walls, chapels, paths and other structures of the central urban area, surrounded by forest.

The visitor center has a museum and models that show what the site was like. It is a good idea to stop there before walking the ruins. There is also a replica of the region's first printing press, created by the Jesuits.

How the visit works

The visit starts with an initial guide. After that, the route is free and follows trails, so you can stop wherever you like and take the time you need. There are benches and places to rest along the way.

Because the ruins are in the middle of the forest, comfortable clothing, a cap and insect repellent are recommended. If you arrive early, you will have more time to look at the models before walking the trails.

A stop to add to your route

Santa María la Mayor is about 20 km from San Javier, on Provincial Route 2. It pairs well with Apóstoles, the capital of yerba mate, and with Concepción de la Sierra.

The same ticket covers San Ignacio Miní, Santa Ana and Nuestra Señora de Loreto, so you can also think of this visit as part of a tour of the region's missions.

Getting there

Santa María la Mayor is in southern Misiones, in the Concepción department, on Provincial Route 2. It is about 20 km from San Javier and about 120 to 150 km from Posadas. It is the most remote of the four Argentine missions in the World Heritage Site. Before you leave, check the condition of the road and the visiting hours. The distance is considerable, so it is best to arrive with time to do the visit without rushing.

Tips

• Confirm the hours before you go: the general schedule is 7:30 to 18:00, and the last guided visit leaves at 17:30.
• Buy your ticket online at the official digital ticket office. The same ticket covers four sites and is valid for 15 days from purchase.
• Wear comfortable clothing, a cap and insect repellent, because the route follows trails inside the forest.
• Start at the visitor center. The museum and models help you understand what you will see among the ruins.
• If you combine this visit with other stops, plan your day with time to spare. The distance to Posadas is 120 to 150 km.
• Use the benches and resting areas. Take the time you need on the free walk.