Museum of Scenographic arts Botíca de Ángel

A curious blend of elephant and former temple. That’s how Eduardo Bergara Leumann described the building that would become the Museum of Scenographic arts “Botica del Ángel”. The Museum of Scenographic arts “Botica del Ángel” began its life quite humbly. In 1966, on Lima 670 street, a theatrical tailor shop was transformed into the first “Botica del Ángel”. It wasn’t just a museum, but a vibrant hub of creativity. Painters, writers, musicians, and actors flocked to it, drawn by its unique charm. Names like Nacha Guevara, Susana Rinaldi, and Haydeé Padilla graced its stage in their early days. Bergara Leumann never considered himself a teacher. Yet, he nurtured a generation of artists. The Museum of Scenographic arts “Botica del Ángel” wasn’t about politics or censorship. It was about pure artistic expression. It was a haven for creativity. The widening of 9 de Julio Avenue led to the closure of the original Botica. But the spirit of the Botica lived on. It found a new home at Luis Sáenz Peña 541, in a former church. This became the “Temple del Ángel”. This second Botica hosted legendary figures. Luisa Vehil, Mecha Ortiz, Tania, Jorge Luis Borges, Ernesto Sábato, Mariano Mores, Ariel Ramírez, Valeria Lynch, Víctor Heredia, and Leonardo Favio all graced its stage. After years of captivating audiences, the second Botica also closed. Bergara Leumann traveled the world, carrying his artistic vision. Twenty years later, he returned. Faced with 47 years of memories, he decided to create a living museum. The Museum of Scenographic arts “Botica del Ángel” was reborn on May 5, 1997. It’s a space filled with memorabilia, photographs, and artworks. It’s a testament to Buenos Aires’ rich cultural past. The Museum of Scenographic arts “Botica del Ángel” is a treasure trove of art and history. It continues to be a home for tango, folklore, and everything in between. It embodies Bergara Leumann’s belief that one only takes what they leave behind and only what is forgotten truly dies.