Inside Rosario – birthplace of Lionel Messi

With FIFA World Cup 2018 euphoria at an all time high, Argentina made it to the round of 16, and we are raining accolades on Lionel Messi. Back in Argentina, in the beautiful port city of Rosario, Messi is a reluctant hero. Born here in 1987, one of the greatest footballers of all time, Lionel Messi has had a difficult relationship with Argentine fans, especially from his hometown Rosario.

Also the birthplace of yet another global icon, Ernesto Che Guevara, Rosario residents do not heap the kind of praise one would imagine Messi deserved. Leaving the city at a young age of 13, Messi found his second home in Barcelona, where he was treated for growth hormone issues, and trained at the FC Barcelona club. Maybe it is because of this that the Argentines feel let-down, and are unable to identify him as a national icon. But whatever the case is, it might all change after this World Cup.
If you happen to be a Lionel Messi fan, or just holidaying in Argentina this summer, do go to Rosario, because the air here smells of greatness.

Here are the top places to visit in the city of Rosario in Argentina.
Museo de la Memoria

Translated as the Museum of Memory, this museum here in the city of Rosario is a must-visit for those interested in history. The museum is a daily reminder of the painful past of Rosario, of the political violence days of 1970s and 1980s. A stellar museum holding post-genocide memories, herein you will find an exhibition hall among other important rooms that would give you an in-depth look into those times.

Parana Delta
A magical place to visit, the Parana river sits here as the second largest river system in South America after Amazon. Here, at the Parana Delta you will be in for nature’s treat, with a vast reserve of plant and animal life. Take a motorboat or a cruise, or in any other way you feel comfortable in, and spend a day exploring the Parana Delta outside the city of Rosario.

Costanera Sur Ecological Reserve

A beautiful ecological reserve, this is a must-visit. You have a great place for multiple activities, ranging from jogging to drinking, or even taking nature walks. Come here to get away from the city’s din, and enjoy bird-watching, strolling, cycling, swimming and more. You could easily end up spending half a day here, so come with enough time in hand. The beer houses and restaurants here keep you nourished and in the mood for more fun and frolic.

Dr. Julio Marc Provincial Historical Museum
Yet another great museum visit in Rosario, the Dr. Julio Marc Provincial Historical Museum has about 30 rooms to inform you about Argentina, and Latin America as a whole. There is a wide range of collection from the Latin American world, including some interesting Baroque art of the religious sort that came from the south of Andes.