Beyond the bustling streets of Buenos Aires, nestled between the vibrant energy of the city and the tranquil embrace of the countryside, lies Loma Hermosa. Loma Hermosa is a town of unique contrasts, a place where the echoes of history intertwine with the rhythm of modern life. Loma Hermosa straddles two partidos, Tres de Febrero and General San Martín, adding another layer to its multifaceted identity. Its very name, “Beautiful Hill,” hints at a picturesque past.
Loma Hermosa’s story begins in the late 19th century, a time when prominent figures like Dr. José M. Bosch and the Piaggio family shaped the landscape. Following the devastating yellow fever epidemic of 1871, many sought refuge in the less populated areas surrounding Buenos Aires, and Loma Hermosa became a haven. The development of the town gained momentum in 1937 when the “Bravo, Barros y Cía” real estate firm initiated the first subdivision. This marked a turning point, transforming what was once a collection of farms and estates into a growing community.
Imagine Loma Hermosa in its early days, a patchwork of solares-quintas, each boasting a minimum of 5,000 square meters. Among the first residents were families like the Mazza, Farina, Pelliza, and many others who sought a fresh start amidst the tranquility. Life then was simpler, devoid of the conveniences of electricity, telephones, and readily available transportation. Yet, it was a life rich with community spirit. Two local dairies, one owned by Pablo Razeto and the other known as “Chubero,” supplied milk and fresh produce to the burgeoning populations of Buenos Aires and San Martín.
Loma Hermosa’s sense of community solidified on March 22, 1942. In the home of engineer Aurelio Montanelli, a group of residents gathered to establish a local development association. Their goal was simple: improve the lives of their fellow residents. This marked the beginning of organized efforts to bring essential services and infrastructure to Loma Hermosa. On July 8, 1945, a significant milestone was reached with the inauguration of a police station on the corner of Avenida Márquez and San Guillermo. Officer Peralta, who had already been patrolling the area for two years, became the first official representative of law and order in Loma Hermosa.
As the population grew, so did the need for education. The first primary school, now known as School No. 38, opened its doors on land donated by the Farina brothers. Small businesses began to sprout, catering to the needs of the expanding community. Loma Hermosa transformed from a quiet rural area into a bustling town. The arrival of several bus lines connected Loma Hermosa to the wider metropolitan area, further accelerating its growth.
Today, Loma Hermosa remains a town of contrasts, where remnants of its rural past coexist with modern industries. Loma Hermosa is also home to the Asociación Social y Deportiva Justo José de Urquiza football club, a source of local pride. From its humble beginnings as a refuge from a city ravaged by disease to its present-day status as a vibrant community, Loma Hermosa offers a unique glimpse into the rich tapestry of life in Greater Buenos Aires.