Page 76 - WDT INTERACTIVE

with gilt, marble and finely crafted hardwood. There
was and probably still is a lot of money flowing into
the owners of land on the Pampas, and like their
counterparts in the city, they built their church (and
other colonial buildings on the plaza) to impress their
peers - and God.
We walked through the plaza, abuzz with workers
planting and maintaining the garden. We paused at
a modest stone monument dedicated to the first
settlers, a mix of Spanish and native people, indicating
at least at that moment, relations with the indigenous
peoples were good.
The streets were relatively empty other than an
occasional gaggle of tourists following a guide, and
the stray dogs who looked well fed and taken care of.
Our guide mentioned that the townspeople knew each
homeless dog by name and made sure they were well
fed and provided for including veterinary care when
needed.
Our stroll passed some local bars or pulperias,
each with sidewalk seating made up of an odd mix
of well-used tables and chairs. We browsed several
shops that preserved many gaucho traditions with
collections of silverwork and saddlery and others
where metalsmith artisans were crafting commis-
sions from all over the world. Our favorite stop was
the Draghi goldsmith workshop of creative, stylish
jewelry. These are great places to acquire authentic
antique souvenirs and handicrafts, although neither
comes cheap.

Special shops showcase classic
Gaucho gear and talented
silversmiths create modern
Pampas masterpieces.

76 WDT MAGAZINE WINTER 2018