Ensconced in the La Plata Partido of Buenos Aires Province lies Melchor Romero. Its story began with rails and healing. Let’s explore this Argentinian town.
Melchor Romero owes its start to the Ferrocarril Oeste. A train station sparked its growth. Soon after, the Hospital Melchor Romero was established. This hospital later became the Instituto Neuropsiquiátrico Alejandro Korn. Its mission was clear. It would care for the poor. Men, women, and children with common illnesses or dementia found refuge here.
The hospital’s creation was legislated in 1882. It was initially named Hospital General de la Ciudad de La Plata. It opened its doors on April 24, 1884. It adopted the name Melchor Romero.
While the hospital rose, so did the railway. A branch of the Ferrocarril Oeste would link Tolosa with Ferrari. Ferrari is now Brandsen. The railway was acquired in 1890. The Ferrocarril Buenos Aires al Puerto de la Ensenada took over. Later, in 1898, the Ferrocarril Sud acquired it. In 1948, railways were nationalized. The system was reorganized and became part of the Ferrocarril General Roca.
Melchor Romero has grown demographically. The 1991 census recorded 20,542 inhabitants. By 2001, the population reached 22,511. The town occupies 20.30 square kilometers.
The Instituto Neuropsiquiátrico Alejandro Korn has specialized since 1945. It focuses on mental illnesses. Melchor Romero thrives with horticultural activity. It is part of La Plata’s green belt.
The area experiences low seismic activity. Subfaults like the Paraná River and Río de la Plata are present. The Punta del Este fault also influences the region. A recent seismic event occurred on November 30, 2018. It measured 3.8 on the Richter scale.
The OPISU is building a public space in the Argentino neighborhood of Melchor Romero. It seeks to unite the community. This includes the Hospital Alejandro Korn and future residents. The project features walkways, a sports area, and rest zones. There will be soccer fields, grills, an amphitheater, and lighting.
These projects emerged from community dialogues. The Province, Municipality, and residents collaborate. Together, they address the community’s needs. Ministries of Habitat, Health, Security, and Women participate. Representatives from the Hospital Alejandro Korn also join.
Melchor Romero. A town born from railways and care. It continues to evolve. The hospital stands as a testament to its history.