The Casona Wilfrido Figueroa gives La Merced a historic landmark, while local food production and crafts add to its character. Nearby, Laguna Escondida also offers a seven-kilometer circular hike that takes four hours. When planning your trip, you can weigh up local history, local products and a longer activity in the surrounding area.

Local History and Visiting Hours

The historic Casona Wilfrido Figueroa stands on a corner of La Merced’s main square and dates from the end of 1884. After more than 70 years of disrepair, it was restored in July 2024 and converted into the Paclín Technological and Cultural Center. The building thus combines its 19th-century architectural history with a much more recent new use. The Casa del Artesano is housed in a historic building opposite the main square. The Chapel of the Virgen del Rosario is one of La Merced’s attractions. Paclín’s Tourism Directorate is also based in the town.

Guided tours of the Casona are offered Monday to Friday from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. and from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. On Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays, visiting hours are 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. The hours therefore vary by day of the week and are divided into two time slots. Check the current tour schedule again before your trip so you can plan your visit accordingly.

Local Products and Crafts

Regional sweets and preserves are made in La Merced, as are homemade cheeses and quesillos. Leatherwork and basket weaving are also part of the local craft tradition. The town’s cultural offerings thus extend beyond its historic buildings to include local production and crafts. If you are interested in regional products and crafts, you can make room for them in your travel plans alongside the architecture.

A Longer Hike Nearby

Near La Merced, Laguna Escondida offers a 7-kilometer circular hike. It takes four hours and is rated moderate. Compared with the cultural attractions in town, it is a separate activity with a clearly stated time commitment. The route and difficulty level can vary seasonally; check both before setting out.

Pimientos de Paclín and the Festival

In Catamarca Province, Pimientos de Paclín are considered a local product. They are associated with a food festival that celebrates Catamarca’s identity and flavors. The 36th Festival del Pimiento in La Merced, in Paclín Department, was scheduled for Saturday, February 14, 2026. That date has passed. If you would like to plan a future trip around a festival, check current event dates.

Discover more destinations: Cerro Negro, Tinogasta, Las Mojarras, San Fernando Del Valle De Catamarca, Coneta.

Go to the regional travel overview: Catamarca.