Opened in 1911, Antigua Estación Villa Luro wasn’t always the station you see today. It began as a humble stop on the Ferrocarril Oeste line. Antigua Estación Villa Luro served as a connection to Versailles Station and the Saenz Peña – Villa Luro branch. It also linked to the Ingeniero Brian passenger and freight station near the Riachuelo River. The station quickly became integral to Villa Luro, a place where locals gathered and shared their lives.
Antigua Estación Villa Luro stands as a testament to the neighborhood’s evolution. It has witnessed the transformation of the area, from a quiet suburb to a bustling hub. The original station, affectionately nicknamed “El Cajón” (The Box), was located near Irigoyen Street. It later moved to its present location under the Perito Moreno highway. This strategic placement, beside the highway between Avenida Lope de Vega and Victor Hugo Street, connects the station seamlessly with the city. Antigua Estación Villa Luro is part of the Sarmiento Line, nestled between Once and Moreno stations. It’s also a gateway to Mercedes and Lobos, accessible via a transfer at Moreno station.
The station’s history reflects the dynamic growth of Buenos Aires. In its early days, three separate branches diverged from Antigua Estación Villa Luro. These lines connected Once, Liniers, Versailles, Saenz Peña, and Ingeniero Brian. This made the station a crucial railway junction. The line to Versailles closed in 1951, isolating the neighborhood from the railway network. The freight line to Ingeniero Brian ceased operations in 1953. The line to Saenz Peña, via Villa Real, closed in 1938 due to the Buenos Aires al Pacífico Railway’s refusal to build a bridge over the new General Paz Avenue.
The Perito Moreno highway, built between 1978 and 1980 over the former Ingeniero Brian line, dramatically altered Antigua Estación Villa Luro. The construction led to the demolition of an island platform and the modification of access points, leaving the station with a single central platform. Over time, the station fell into disrepair. However, in 2014, it underwent a complete restoration. The single platform was demolished and rebuilt with modern shelters and ticket offices. This renovation not only improved the station’s functionality but also ensured its continued role in the vibrant life of Villa Luro.
Today, Antigua Estación Villa Luro offers convenient access to the city. The nearby railway workshops contribute to efficient train maintenance, ensuring a reliable service. Numerous bus lines, including the 1, 2, 8, 34, 46, 86, 88, 96, 99, 113, 136, 163, 166, 172, 181, and 182, connect the station to various destinations throughout Buenos Aires. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, Antigua Estación Villa Luro offers an efficient and comfortable journey.