General Roca
Situated in the central region of the Alto Valle del
Río Negro, this city has a population of approximately
70,000 and its foundation goes back to the 1st. of September,
1879 at an existing military post commanded by Colonel Lorenzo Vintter.
Fruit production is certainly the main activity.
It is a modern city with a few historical buildings still standing.
Walking the downtown streets, you will find the former Post Office
in a typical Andean style. At present it is the seat of the organizing
Committee for the Fiesta Nacional de al Manzana (Apple festival),
taking place every March. Another interesting building belonged
to the former bank of Río Negro and Neuquén.
The Diario Río Negro, is the largest daily newspaper in
all Patagonia and one of the most important in the country. It was
founded by Mr. Fernando Rajneri in 1912. The United Nations Depository
Library functions in its modern installations.
In the intersection of 9 of July and Maipú streets you
can visit the Casa de la Cultura. If what you are looking for is
a little relaxation, we also recommend the Paseo El Canalito, an
irrigation canal in the center of Gral. Roca with an adjacent park
where during the summer nights you can mingle with artisans, craftsmen
and artists or have the possibility of a refreshment.
Drive some 12 km outside
Gral. Roca to Paso Córdoba, a wild place on the Río Negro. Ideal
for a day´s outing.
We finally recommend a visit to the Mirador de las Tres Cruces (at 21 km. from
the city). You will have a panoramic view of the city, the Patagonian steppe and
the valley.
See Also: The Cold Region Wines
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