Dolores travel guide

Dolores is a pretty, sleepy little town, 204 km south of Buenos Aires. Founded in 1818, it was the first town in independent Argentina, and its attractive old buildings would be perfect as a film set for a 19th-century drama. There’s an interesting little museum, Museo Libres del Sur (Parque Libres del Sur, daily 1000-1700) with good displays on local history, in particular about the Campaign of the Desert and the subsequent revolt against Rosas. It also contains lots of gaucho silver, plaited leather tableros, branding irons and a huge cart from 1868. There’s a charming plaza at the heart of the town, with a central obelisk and impressive classical-style church, the Iglesia Nuestra Señora de Dolores. In mid- to late February, the Fiesta de la Guitarra is held, with performances from internationally famous musicians, dancing and processions. This is a good time to visit, but book ahead. For further information, contact the tourist office (T02245-442432, http://www.dolores.gov.ar) . The railway station is 15 minutes from the centre.