Mendoza

Mendoza commonly refers to Mendoza Province in western Argentina or its capital city, Mendoza. The province lies in the Cuyo region and borders Chile to the west, with the Andes forming the western boundary and several other Argentinian provinces to the north, south, and east. Its capital, also named Mendoza, is the administrative and economic center of the province.

Geography and climate: The province features part of the Andes mountains, high valleys, and desert-like plains. The major wine valleys include Luján de Cuyo, Maipú, and the Uco Valley. The climate is continental and arid, with hot summers and cool nights; precipitation is scarce, and irrigation is essential, supplied mainly by rivers from the Andes. The region's diverse topography supports agriculture, especially viticulture.

History: Indigenous peoples inhabited the region before European contact. The Spanish established settlements in the 16th century. The city suffered a devastating earthquake in 1861 and was rebuilt with boulevards and plazas. In the late 19th century, European immigrants expanded wine production and agriculture, laying the groundwork for the modern wine industry.

Economy and culture: Mendoza is renowned for wine, particularly Malbec, and the wine valleys surrounding the city host a large share of Argentina's viticulture. Tourism centers on wine production, the Andes, and outdoor activities in areas such as Aconcagua Provincial Park. The Aconcagua massif is the highest peak in the Americas outside Asia, attracting mountaineers. The economy also includes fruit farming, manufacturing, and services, with universities such as the National University of Cuyo.