Belén, city in Catamarca province, Argentina
Belén is a small town in Catamarca Province located near a river of the same name. The town has simple houses with light colors, wide landscapes with dry climate, and a quiet pace in daily life.
Belén was founded about 300 years ago as a farming community where land was granted for living and working. The arrival of the railway in 1880 fostered the town's development and made it a regional trade center.
The name Belén references the biblical city and honors the Virgin Mary. Hand looms shape the town, where artisans use traditional techniques to create fabrics with patterns of snakes, frogs and birds from sheep, llama or alpaca wool.
The best time to visit is in spring or autumn when the climate is pleasant and there is little rain. Visitors should bring comfortable clothing, sunscreen and insect repellent, especially when planning outdoor activities.
A notable feature is the statue of the Virgin Mary erected in 1982 by a sculptor from Mar del Plata, standing about 15 meters tall. It is visible from many points in town and offers a wide view over the city and its surroundings from above.
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