Once a carbon dioxide factory now a shopping haven. That’s the story of El Solar de la Abadía. It stands in Las Cañitas a part of Palermo in Buenos Aires.
El Solar de la Abadía is more than just a mall. It’s a meeting point. It opened in September 1995. The prestigious architectural firm Bodas-Miani-Anger designed it. They recycled the old “Gas Carbo” factory. This innovative design earned them the Maxi Award in 1997.
The location of El Solar de la Abadía is quite special. It’s on Avenida Luis María Campos. It sits between Maure and Gorostiaga streets. El Solar de la Abadía faces the Hospital Militar Central. It is also opposite the Abadía de San Benito. You can reach it by buses 15 29 42 55 59 60 64 and 118.
Inside El Solar de la Abadía you’ll find 80 shops. There are also 20 stands. These are spread across three levels. You can find clothing technology and accessories. The food court offers many choices. Parking is available for over 200 cars.
El Solar de la Abadía isn’t just about shopping. It’s also a cultural hub. It hosts many activities. These include book presentations cooking classes and fashion shows. There are also art exhibitions and live music. El Solar de la Abadía offers recreational workshops for children too. About 400000 people visit each month. In 2005 around 7800000 people visited the center.
El Solar de la Abadía preserved details of the old power plant. You can still see brick and exposed beams. This gives it a faithful English style.
El Solar de la Abadía stands as a testament to innovative design. It blends history with modern shopping. It won the International Council of Shopping Centers award in Las Vegas in 1997. El Solar de la Abadía has truly transformed from a factory to a vibrant community space. So next time you’re in Buenos Aires take a moment to explore El Solar de la Abadía.