In the heart of Villa Lugano, a metal figure stands tall. This is the Busto Francisco Soldati, a tribute to the man who dreamed this neighborhood into existence. José Ferdinando Francisco Soldati, born in Lugano, Switzerland, arrived in Argentina with limited resources. He worked diligently, starting as an employee for Sociedad Obras del Riachuelo and the De Marchi family’s administration. Later, his entrepreneurial spirit ignited. Soldati became an active partner in “Soldati, Tagliabue, Craveri y Cía.” He joined “M. S. Bagley y Cía.” and even co-founded the Nuevo Banco Italiano, eventually serving as its president. The Busto Francisco Soldati is more than just a metal bust. It represents Soldati’s vision and dedication to building a community. He purchased land from the Cazenave estate near present-day Murguiondo and Avenida de la Riestra. There, in 1908, Villa Lugano was born. Soldati didn’t just sell plots of land. He offered loans for construction, with discounts for railway workers. He envisioned a thriving community, not just a collection of houses. He even financed the construction of the Villa Lugano train station. The Busto Francisco Soldati reminds us of a man who, though born in Switzerland, chose Argentina as his canvas. He left his mark on this land, creating a neighborhood that bears the name of his birthplace. He returned to Switzerland in 1909 and passed away in Lugano in 1913. His legacy, however, continues to stand tall in the heart of Villa Lugano, cast in metal, a testament to his enduring vision.
Центральный дом работников искусств
Step through the grand wooden doors of the Central House of the Workers of Art, and you’ll be transported to