Los Antiguos, human settlement in Argentina
Los Antiguos is a small municipality in northwestern Santa Cruz in Argentina, positioned near the Andes at the edge of a fertile valley. The settlement is built around fruit cultivation, particularly cherries, strawberries, raspberries, and apples that define the local landscape and economy.
The area was home to Tehuelche indigenous peoples for centuries before European settlement arrived in the region. Over time, it gradually became an agricultural center where fruit cultivation became central to community life and survival.
The name comes from a Tehuelche legend, where the word meant "my ancestors" or "the ancient ones", referring to the indigenous people who saw this as a resting place. Today, cherry harvests shape local life, and in January the community celebrates with a festival where visitors can buy fruit straight from the orchards.
The town is accessible by road and serves as a gateway for exploring Patagonia and its natural attractions in the surrounding area. The best time to visit is summer, especially January, when the cherry festival takes place and the orchards are ready for harvest.
The town's name comes from a Tehuelche word meaning "my ancestors", reflecting the deep historical connection to indigenous peoples who once inhabited this land. Nearby is the Cueva de las Manos, featuring hand stencils from about 10,000 years ago, designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1999 and representing one of the oldest examples of human artistic expression in the region.
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