The Jesuits Missions, north of Iguazú River only survived two decades and they lived in constant fear of attack from the “Bandeirantes” (las Banderas Paulistas) until finally, 12.000 aborigines and a handful of priests were forced to set off along the River Parana in the search of more peaceful lands.

In 1632, they returned to Misiones to found the settlements which prospered until the expulsion of the Jesuits in 1767.

For around 150 years small communities occupied these deserted settlements where around them they planted and sowed, constructed and eventually ceased to exist.

The Jesuit ruins are a destination for those who are fascinated by history or simply for those who want to share a timeless moment in the vastness and magnificence of a place that has stood for over 400 years.

We suggest you to take a Half Day or a Full Day trip to San Ignacio, Loreto and Santa Ana Ruins.

If you have further interest we may visit the Ruins of Jesús de Tavarangüé and Trinidad del Paraná in Paraguay.

San Ignacio Miní - 

Library entrance

Photo: Roberto Zimmerli