Paraná

Paraná is the capital of Entre Ríos province in Argentina and sits on the elevated eastern bank of the river of the same name between 18 and 30 meters (60 to 100 feet) above water level. The city spreads along the river terrace with residential districts, commercial streets, and several green areas that slope down to the lower shore.

The settlement was founded in 1730 under the name Bajada de Santa Fe by colonists coming from the opposite bank. Between 1853 and 1862 the place served as capital of the Argentine Confederation before the government moved to Buenos Aires.

The cathedral on Plaza Primero de Mayo honors Our Lady of the Rosary and rises above a square where locals gather for evening walks. The building shows a neoclassical facade with two symmetrical towers and a dome visible from much of downtown.

General Justo José de Urquiza Airport sits about 8 kilometers (5 miles) from downtown and connects the city with regular service to Buenos Aires. Most landmarks and shops concentrate around pedestrian zones in the historic core, making it easy to explore much on foot.

An underwater tunnel completed in 1969 runs below the riverbed and connects the city directly with Santa Fe through a road tube. The tunnel allows a quick drive between the two provincial capitals without ferries or long detours over bridges.