Behold, a commanding figure frozen in bronze. The Monumento a José de San Martín stands before us. It commemorates a hero of South American independence. This monument is more than just a statue. It symbolizes the bond between Spain and Argentina.
Let’s delve into the story behind this impressive monument. It is a copy of the original created by French sculptor Louis Joseph Daumas. The original was erected in Buenos Aires in 1862. Interestingly, that first statue was the first equestrian statue in Argentina. Copies of it exist throughout Argentina. Another copy stands in Cádiz, Spain.
The Madrid monument sits on a roundabout. This roundabout was added to the park. It was built when the Avenida del Arco de la Victoria was realigned. General José de San Martín served in the Spanish army for twenty years. Later, he became a key figure in Argentina’s independence. He helped liberate other South American countries too. These countries were near the Río de la Plata.
Argentina’s President Arturo Frondizi attended the laying of the first stone in 1960. The monument was completed a year later. The pedestal is made of solid granite. It features moldings and decorations. Two bronze bas-reliefs adorn the sides. One depicts the Crossing of the Andes. The other shows the Battle of Bailén. Bronze plaques with inscriptions are on the front and back.
The front inscription reads: “Spain and Argentina to General José de San Martín.” It mentions President Arturo Frondizi. He placed the foundational stone on July 9. The City Council of Madrid erected this monument. It was inaugurated on May 25, 1961. The Argentine Ambassador Héctor D’Andrea donated the sculpture. This was in the name of the Argentine people.
The rear inscription pays homage. It honors Antonio Cornide. He was San Martín’s teacher. Cornide instilled military virtues in the General. It also honors Alejandro María Agudo. He was a comrade of arms. Agudo was a friend and protector.
The statue portrays the General on horseback. He wears a military uniform. His right hand is raised in salute. The monument faces the portico of the Museo de América.
Look around at the oval plaza. It is the monument’s setting. The plaza features a raised, landscaped platform. Stone steps lead to the pedestal. Four cast iron lampposts stand at the corners. Two granite monoliths bear additional plaques.
The left plaque reads: “The Nation to General Don José de San Martín.” It commemorates the sesquicentennial of May. The National Executive Commission dedicated it. The Minister of Interior of Argentina was Alfredo R. Vitolo in 1961. The right plaque is marble. It is from the War College. It says: “The Superior School of War and Center of Higher Studies of the Argentine Army to General D. José de San Martín, 1970.”
Notice how the oval roundabout frames the monument. It creates a fitting backdrop. The surrounding plane trees enhance the setting. The Monumento a José de San Martín is a lasting tribute. It honors a great leader and strengthens ties between nations.