Ever wondered what secrets lie within those ancient walls? Welcome to La Casona a true Buenos Aires treasure. Standing proudly in Parque Avellaneda this stately house is the last remaining estancia house in the entire city. Built in the 19th century it was originally the heart of an innovative agricultural enterprise. But by 1870 after significant renovations it had transformed into a luxurious mansion a gathering place for Buenos Aires’ elite.
Imagine elegant parties held within. The expansive terrace offered more than just stunning views. From there two centuries ago the entire Chacra de los Remedios could be surveyed. Any threat to the Olivera family’s property was instantly spotted. This is where the family who owned the Chacra de los Remedios lived.
La Casona’s architecture is a delightful mix of styles. Italian influence is visible in the ornate facade and columns. A French touch is evident in the mansard roof. The grand central staircase is a key feature. This reflects the stately style the house acquired after the 1870 renovations undertaken by Carlos Olivera. He was one of the first twelve engineers in the country. He worked alongside notable figures Eduardo Madero and Luis Huergo.
Today La Casona is not just a historical site. It’s being restored to house a contemporary art center. There are plans for a Memory Room a community space for local artists a mediatheque and a microcinema. Along with the old dairy and former swimming pool La Casona forms the Chacra de los Remedios Cultural Complex. Music dance yoga literature and the visual arts all thrive within those 19th-century walls. A truly unique space.
But La Casona’s story isn’t just about elegance and art. Another La Casona in Lanús had a very different past. It was a legendary nightclub in the 80s. Soda Stereo and Charly García once performed there. This venue even hosted a pair of pumas. Sadly it closed after a tragic murder in 2006. The original La Casona however stands as a testament to a rich history. A symbol of Buenos Aires’ past and a vibrant promise for its future.