Open Door

In the heart of Argentina, nestled within the partido of Luján, lies the quaint village of Open Door. Open Door’s story began in the early 20th century. It started not with grand plans but with a simple railway station. This station became the nucleus of a settlement initially known as “Colonia Nacional Psiquiátrica Domingo Cabred”. Open Door owes its unusual name to a forward-thinking doctor. Dr. Domingo Cabred implemented an “open door” policy in the treatment of mental illness. This progressive approach, a departure from traditional methods, gave the town its unique moniker. Open Door’s history is intertwined with the nearby psychiatric institution. Dr. Cabred’s “Puerta Abierta” policy, inspired by a successful French model, allowed patients to move freely in and out during the day. This fostered a sense of community between the patients and villagers. The patients, affectionately referred to as “locos”, became integral to the town’s daily life. They would help with gardening, cleaning, and odd jobs, often accepting meals and cigarettes in return. Strong bonds formed between the villagers and the patients, with some families even offering long-term homes. One such relationship, documented as recently as 2010, speaks volumes about the unique connection fostered in Open Door. Over the past decade, Open Door has undergone a transformation. It has become a hub for polo, boasting over a hundred polo fields within a ten-mile radius. This has drawn a diverse crowd of locals and foreigners, transforming Open Door into a vibrant weekend destination. Despite the influx of visitors, Open Door retains its welcoming atmosphere. Its residents, accustomed to a diverse population, embrace newcomers, creating a sense of belonging for all who pass through its “open door”.