The Jesuit Block and Estancias of Córdoba (Spanish: Manzana Jesuítica y Estancias de Córdoba) are a former Jesuit settlement built by missionaries in the province of Córdoba, Argentina. It was named a World Heritage Site in 2000.
The Manzana Jesuítica includes the University of Córdoba, one of the oldest in South America, the Monserrat Secondary School, a church, and buildings for living. To support this project, the Jesuits managed six Estancias (farms or residences) in the province of Córdoba. These were named Caroya, Jesús María, Santa Catalina, Alta Gracia, Candelaria, and San Ignacio.
The settlement and farms began in 1615 but were abandoned by the Jesuits in 1767 after a decree by King Charles III of Spain ordered their removal from the continent. The Franciscans then managed the area until 1853, when the Jesuits returned to the Americas. However, the university and school were taken over by the government one year later.
Each Estancia has its own church and buildings, and towns grew around them, such as Alta Gracia, which is closest to the Block. The Jesuit Block and Estancias are open to visitors. The Road of the Jesuit Estancias is about 250 kilometers (160 miles) long.
Jorge Mario Bergoglio, who later became Pope Francis, lived in the area.