Doesn’t its name itself conjure images of a revered figure? Edificio San José is a distinguished building of the Universidad Católica Argentina. Yet its story goes beyond education. Let me tell you about a place that embodies Argentina’s rich history.
Originally named Posta San José, locals soon called it Palacio San José because of its exquisite design. This magnificent building served as the residence for General Justo José de Urquiza. He was the first constitutional president of Argentina. He lived here with his wife Dolores Costa.
Palacio San José showcases an Italianate style blended with Argentinian Creole influences. This architectural fusion reflects the cultural richness of the region. Imagine a sprawling estate of 2,500 hectares. Twenty hectares were dedicated to parks lush gardens and fruit orchards. Right in the middle was the main house built in the Italian Renaissance style.
Construction of Palacio San José took twelve years from 1848 to 1860. The project was first entrusted to Italian architect Jacinto Dellepiane. After Dellepiane left, Pietro Fossati took over with his sculptor brother assisting. Talented carvers blacksmiths painters and gardeners were brought in from abroad to complete this masterpiece.
The Palacio boasts 38 grand rooms arranged around two beautiful patios. There were service buildings, a chapel and coach houses. It even had a general store, a dovecote for 650 pigeons and an artificial lake. The lake spanning 20000 square meters featured light sailboats. Sumptuous parties were often held along its shores.
Two symmetrical towers mark the facade adorned with classical motifs. The Patio de Honor welcomes visitors with a wide gallery. Tuscan-style columns support arches. Reception rooms, offices, a billiard room, dining rooms and family bedrooms are here.
The second courtyard called Patio del Parral features a wrought iron vine. This area housed rooms for less prominent visitors. A third courtyard contained service staff quarters.
Inside the Palacio San José elegance was in every detail. Juan Manuel Blanes an Uruguayan artist created paintings and murals. His works depicted battles involving General Urquiza. The gardens featured busts of Napoleon, Hernán Cortés, Alexander the Great and Julius Caesar. Sculptures by León Sola an artist from Entre Ríos added to the beauty.
Palacio San José was innovative. It had running water since 1856. Water came from the Gualeguaychú River two kilometers away. Buenos Aires did not have this until 1870.
The Palacio San José witnessed significant historical events. General Urquiza lived and died here. He was assassinated on April 11, 1870. His wife transformed the bedroom where he died into an oratory.
In 1935 Palacio San José became a National Historical Museum. Today the Edificio San José stands as a testament to Argentina’s past. It reflects the ambition vision and artistry that shaped a nation. Its walls echo with stories of political intrigue cultural vibrancy and personal tragedy.