Misiones Province Facts for Kids

Quick facts for kids

Misiones

Clockwise from top: Iguazú Falls (Iguazú National Park), Posadas, Guaraní Jesuit Mission of San Ignacio Miní, Yerba Mate plantation.

Flag	Coat of arms

Location of Misiones within Argentina

Country

Area

• Total

29.801 km² (11.506 sq mi)

Population

(2010)

• Total

1.097.829 (Ranked 10th)

• Density

36.8/km² (95/sq mi)

Demonym(s)

misionero

Time zone

UTC−3 (ART)

Misiones is a beautiful province in Argentina. It is located in the very northeast corner of the country. Imagine it like a special piece of a puzzle! To its northwest is Paraguay, and Brazil surrounds it from the north, east, and south.

About 1.1 million people live in Misiones. The province is famous for many things. It is home to the amazing Iguazú National Park, which has some of the world's most spectacular waterfalls.

Long ago, the land of Misiones was home to the Guarani people. They were the first inhabitants of this region. Today, Misiones is known for growing a lot of yerba mate. This plant is used to make a popular drink in Argentina. The province also has light industries and a growing tourism sector. These activities help the local economy.

Exploring Misiones: A Land of Wonders
Images for kids
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Exploring Misiones: A Land of Wonders

Misiones is a unique place with a rich history and stunning nature. It is known for its red earth, which gives the landscape a special look. This province offers many exciting things to see and learn about.

The Mighty Iguazú Falls

One of the biggest attractions in Misiones is the Iguazú Falls. These waterfalls are among the largest and most powerful in the world. They are located within the Iguazú National Park. The park is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Visitors can walk along pathways and see the falls from different angles. The sound of the water is incredible. It is a truly unforgettable experience. Many different plants and animals live in the park.

Yerba Mate: A Special Crop

Misiones is the main place in Argentina where yerba mate is grown. This plant is very important to the local economy. Yerba mate leaves are dried and crushed. They are then used to make a traditional drink called mate.

Drinking mate is a big part of Argentine culture. People share it with friends and family. It is a symbol of hospitality and friendship. The plantations where yerba mate grows are a common sight in Misiones.

Ancient History: The Guarani People

Before Europeans arrived, the Guarani people lived in Misiones. They had a rich culture and way of life. Later, Jesuit missionaries came to the area. They built special settlements called Jesuit Missions or Reductions.

These missions were like small towns. The Jesuits taught the Guarani people about Christianity. They also helped them with farming and crafts. The ruins of these old missions, like San Ignacio Miní, can still be visited today. They are an important part of Misiones' history.

Posadas: The Capital City

The capital city of Misiones is Posadas. It is located on the Paraná River. Posadas is a busy city and the center of the province's government and trade. It has a beautiful waterfront and a lively atmosphere.

The city is a gateway to other parts of Misiones. It also connects to Paraguay across the river. Posadas offers a mix of modern life and historical charm.

Government and How Misiones is Run

Misiones is one of Argentina's 23 provinces. It has its own government. The head of the province is called the Governor. The province is divided into 17 smaller areas called departments. These departments help manage local services.

There are also 78 municipalities in Misiones. These are like local towns and cities. They have their own leaders who work to serve the people living there.

Images for kids

1846 impression of San Ignacio Miní, a Jesuit Reduction, abandoned following the temporary abolition of the order in 1773.
Steamer on the riverbank at Posadas, 1892.
Ukrainian immigrants harvest yerba mate in 1920. Despite challenging conditions, Misiones attracted considerable European immigration in the early 20th-century.
Alto Paraná Atlantic forests
Terminal at Puerto Iguazu International Airport.
Yerba mate plantation.