Santiago del Estero was founded by Captain Francisco de Aguirre on July 25th, 1553. It was the first city founded in Argentina. A noble and loyal city, it is called "Mother Of Cities" and "Mother of Argentinean Churches". Santiago del Estero has grown to the rythm of progress and its surprising cultural aspect, its people,"santiaguenos" have always been very creative. The folklore lives in its people's souls and it is expressed through its music, artcrafts, and popular traditions.