Imagine stepping back in time as you approach the Complejo Museográfico Provincial Enrique Udaondo. This isn’t just a museum. It is a portal to Argentina’s rich past.
The Complejo Museográfico Provincial Enrique Udaondo is a prominent tourist destination. It stands proudly near the Basilica Nacional Ntra. Sra. de Luján.
Inside, a diverse heritage awaits. Material, immaterial, and monumental treasures span from pre-Hispanic times to the mid-20th century. The museum safeguards and shares stories of the past. It offers a look at Argentine history from a provincial perspective. The focus lies on the unique history of the Cabildo de Luján’s jurisdiction.
Enrique Udaondo aims to instill pride and understanding of Argentina’s heritage. It seeks to highlight the values of the nation. The extensive building houses the Colonial and Historical Museum. It also includes the Transportation Museum and the Automobile Museum. These museums nestle amid beautiful parks and gardens.
The Cabildo, the Viceroy’s House, and the Casa de la Pepa Galarza are national monuments within the complex. These landmarks recall key moments in the country’s history. Collections include furniture and documents. You will see letters, books, and visual arts. Silverware, clothing and modes of transport are also displayed.
The Complejo Museográfico Provincial Enrique Udaondo offers a journey through time. Carriages, trains and automobiles from different eras await you. The museum was created on December 31 1917. It started as the Historical and Colonial Museum of the Province. The old Cabildo de Luján and the Real Estanco de Tabacos y Naipes became its home. The latter was known as the “Casa del Virrey”.
The Casa del Virrey got its name because Viceroy Sobremonte rested there. He was trying to reach Córdoba with the treasure of the Cabildo de Buenos Aires. The Casa Cabildo dates back to 1791. It is the second most important in the Province. The Cabildo in Buenos Aires is the first. William Carr Beresford was imprisoned here. He was a General during the first English invasion. Manuel Belgrano, Cornelio Saavedra and Bartolomé Mitre were also prisoners.
The museum opened to the public in 1923. Enrique Udaondo served as its director until his death. Special rooms were designed for the new museum. They preserved the colonial style of the Casa Cabildo and the Casa del Virrey. On opening day October 12, the museum featured rooms that challenged nationalistic ideas. There were rooms dedicated to prisoners and the English invasions. Doctor Muñiz, Independence, the Chapter Room and Juan Manuel de Rosas were also represented.
Enrique Udaondo said at the opening “This establishment will be a permanent tribute to the men of the Past”. He wanted their memory to be present in Argentina. He thought it would complement schools and strengthen national spirit.
As you wander through the Complejo Museográfico Provincial Enrique Udaondo, you will notice its growth. Over time, more land was purchased and more collections added. In the 1930s, construction began on the Transportation Museum. Donations came from elite families and Udaondo himself. The museum grew to include furniture, silverware and decorations. Weapons, uniforms, art, books and carriages were also added.
Today, the intention is to increase the number of visitors to the museum. About 30000 people visit each year. As you explore the Cabildo area, notice the towers of the church. In the “Federal Era” room, admire combs and period furniture. Do not miss Franklin Rawson’s “The Maza Plot”. See everyday items from the past. You may also see a recently restored Argentine Confederation flag.
The Cabildo displays a variety of items. There are period card games and items used by the British during the invasions. One notable item is the baton of the Drum Major of the 71st Regiment “Highlanders”. “Eternal Magic of the Sacred” evokes the native peoples of the Northwest. Appreciate pre-Columbian textiles. “Art in Creole Culture” features objects related to the countryside. Ricardo Güiraldes’ desk is also there.
The Complejo Museográfico Provincial Enrique Udaondo provides a unique tourist experience. It blends local, national, and Latin American history. You can explore colonial architecture and traditions. You can travel through time with different modes of transport.