Much like other places in South America, religion and spirituality add tempo to the daily life of the citizens of Argentina. The excitement of the population is always impressive and your trip to Argentina is also the perfect opportunity to observe how some traditional beliefs have been combined with religion.
You'll probably notice during your trip to Argentina that religion plays a very important role in the daily life of its citizens. There's a church in every town square. 92% of the Argentinian population is Catholic. There's also a large Jewish community. However, it's mostly concentrated in Buenos Aires. If you're lucky enough to be in the country during a religious holiday, make sure not to miss out on participating. You will no doubt be in awe of the incredible sense of excitement present at the ceremonies and processions. They are so important that bank holidays have been added for some religious festivals. For example, in addition to Easter Monday and the weekend before it, the Thursday and Friday preceding Easter Monday have been made into bank holidays as well. Now that's a great idea to take back home! Imagine: an even longer break to plan your next getaway. In December, the Feast of the Immaculate Conception is especially celebrated by Argentinians who again have the benefit of two supplementary public holidays. The year then comes to a beautiful close with the huge Christmas celebrations.
Rather than practicing rites related to magic, as is done in many neighbouring countries, Argentinians dedicate themselves to the worship of the most popular saints. This practice is especially prevalent in the more remote regions of the country as well as Patagonia. Don't be surprised to stumble upon little alters dedicated to them in the streets. These are so important in the daily life of the Argentinian people that even the Church has ended up accepting them, even sometimes integrating them into mass. Among the most popular and beloved are the famous Gauchito Gil in the Corrientes region and the Difunta Correa in San Juan. The legend of the Difunta Correa (in English, Deceased Correa) is particularly touching and emotional. She was found in the desert, dead of thirst with her infant child still nursing at her bosom.
