Listen closely. Did you know that Parroquia La Sagrada Familia began as the chapel for the Hogar Luis María Saavedra? Let’s step inside and uncover its history.
Parroquia La Sagrada Familia has a rich past. It stands as a testament to faith and community. The story starts with Petrona Coronell de Lamarca. In 1874 she founded the Sociedad de San José. Its purpose was to help those in poverty. The Sociedad opened many facilities. Dámasa Zelaya de Saavedra donated land for a new Hogar. It was named after her late husband.
Around 1922 Elisa Alvear de Bosch was president. She got French architect René Sergent to donate plans for the Hogar Luis María Saavedra. Sergent was well known. Eduardo María Lanús and Pablo Hary built it in Buenos Aires. They also completed other projects from Sergent’s plans.
The early 20th century saw a return to classicism. Lanús and Hary were leaders in Argentina. Sergent drew inspiration from 18th-century French designs. His influence on Argentine architects was significant. The Hogar Luis María Saavedra shows this movement. Its facades highlight its essence. The buildings surround a large central garden. This resembles a cloister. Ernestina Llavallol de Acosta donated a statue of the Sacred Heart. It stands in the center.
The area was open land when built. The new building with a central garden created a sheltered space. The pavilions were built between 1927 and 1934. They honor donors and Argentine presidents. These people helped with construction. The pavilions are named after Isabel Armstrong de Elortondo and others.
The rear and sides form a ring. It has two levels of small living units. Galleries connect them. These overlook the central garden. Large windows provide light. Today elderly women live in these apartments. They have autonomous two-room apartments. These have a patio a kitchen and a laundry room. Social and spiritual assistance is available. Common activities are encouraged. These activities include sewing and crafts.
The main building has three levels. The main entrance is on Avenida Ricardo Balbín. A small lobby leads to a circular space. This has balconies on the second floor. A skylight provides light. An artistic nativity scene is above the entrance to the hall. María Castellano Fotheringham created the ceramic figures. Nicolás Rubió a Catalan artist painted the background. It reads “Glory to God in the highest and on earth peace to men of good will.”
In part of this building is Parroquia La Sagrada Familia. Its entrance is on Avenida Ricardo Balbín 4127. Mass was celebrated there. This followed the blessing of the nativity scene. The Banco Nación choir performed. A door leads into the former chapel. This is now Parroquia La Sagrada Familia.
The Sociedad de San José established a primary school for girls. This was shortly after opening the Hogar Saavedra and the Sagrada Familia temple. The Company of Mary religious order managed it. It became “Santa María de Nazareth” in 1979. This honored the Virgin Child.
The Hogar Luis María Saavedra is protected by law. This includes Colegio Santa María de Nazareth and Iglesia de la Sagrada Familia. This protection preserves the city’s memory. María Jáuregui de Pradere funded its construction. The cornerstone was placed June 12 1927. In 1928 the temple was ceded to the Archdiocese. It became a parish on October 12 1928. Services began January 1 1929. The Society retained ownership.
The church has a Latin cross layout. It features a central nave and two side naves. Its style is neo-Romanesque. Jules-Edouard Visseaux created terracotta images. The altar shows the Holy Family in Bethlehem. Sculptures of angels are on each side. Statues of saints adorn the main nave.
The church has a wooden pulpit. It was made in Buenos Aires. Its design came from Paris. The ceiling shows the Holy Spirit. The altar of Perpetual Help was donated by Ernestina Llavallol de Acosta. The altars of the Sacred Heart and Holy Christ were funded by Elisa Alvear de Bosch.
Images of saints are displayed. These include Saint Joan of Lestonnac. She founded the Company of Mary. Images of the evangelists are sculpted in the pendentives. A marble and bronze cinerarium is in the former baptistery. The temple’s baptismal font is also marble.
The main entrance faced the Hogar’s hall. A new entrance was opened on Avenida del Tejar in 1937. The Nuncio Monsignor Fietta blessed it. The entrance now has images. These images include Our Lady of Luján and Saint Cajetan. Two portals on Donado Street were closed.
Parroquia La Sagrada Familia stands as a beautiful reminder. It embodies faith charity and artistic dedication. Its history connects to the stories of many people. These include Petrona Coronell de Lamarca and René Sergent. Take a moment to appreciate its beauty. Reflect on the enduring spirit of community.