According to research and archaeological rescue of the missionary Ruth Poujade, among others, it is estimated that the mission territory was inhabited from about 10,000 years ago.

The Guarani Missions entered the region from the year 1000. The explosion in the area involved, in some cases forced displacement, and in others, the acculturation of groups that were already established as the kaigangs and Guyana.

The arrival of the first settlers to the region occurred in the sixteenth century "... and on the banks of the river was very great number of Indians in the same generation as the Guaraní, all very feathered with feathers of parrots and other kind, painted many ways and colors, and their bows and arrows in their hands made their squad, which was very great pleasure of seeing" (Alvar Nuñez Cabeza de Vaca 1542).

Between 1609 and 1818, were developed in the heart of the Cuenca del Plata The Guaraní Jesuit Missions in an area involving Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay and Uruguay. It was an experience with social, cultural and religious character kind of experience, unique in its kind, featuring native peoples and the Society of Jesus.

San Ignacio currently has a population of 10,541 inhabitants and is known for having a town with a reduction of San Ignacio Mini Jesuit, whose remains are among the best preserved in this historical stage in 1984 and were declared by UNESCO heritage of Humanity.