Perhaps no place in Pilar whispers history quite like El Cenáculo La Montonera. This isn’t just a religious retreat. It is a place where Argentina’s story has unfolded. The very name La Montonera evokes images of Pancho Ramirez and his men.
El Cenáculo La Montonera spans 200 hectares bordering the Luján River. It began as a vacation spot for seminary students. Now owned by the Archdiocese of Buenos Aires it hosts bishops twice a year.
Let me tell you about its rich past. Back in 1820 Pancho Ramirez and his montonera camped here. They were on their way to sign the Treaty of Pilar. This important event took place near the old chapel of Pilar.
Even earlier in 1671 a pilgrimage passed through these lands. They carried the original image of the Virgin of Luján. It was moved from its first chapel to what is now the National Sanctuary of Luján.
The main house you see dates back to 1880. It stands within a park of ancient trees. Today El Cenáculo La Montonera welcomes guests. It can accommodate up to 180 people in private rooms. It also features meeting rooms and an auditorium.
In 1938 the Archbishop of Buenos Aires bought La Montonera. Cardinal Santiago Luis Copello wanted a vacation spot for his seminarists. A generous donation from Filomena Devoto funded new buildings. In 1941 the Casa de Vacaciones Hogar San José de La Montonera opened.
The architect Carlos C Massa designed the building. It has simple lines and spacious rooms. The chapel at its heart is dedicated to San José. Originally the building had large communal dormitories for 400 people.
Later additions included outdoor Stations of the Cross. There is also a mural dedicated to the Miracle of the Virgin of Luján.
Since 1970 El Cenáculo La Montonera has been a place for spiritual retreats. For two years nuns from the United States ran the facility. In 2004 Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio now Pope Francis oversaw renovations.
El Cenáculo La Montonera is more than just buildings and grounds. It is a living testament to Argentina’s history and faith. It is a place where you can connect with the past and find peace in the present. For 80 years it has served the community offering spiritual renewal to all who visit. The historic main house is a place of rest prayer and fellowship for clergy.