Beneath our feet lies a story of transformation. It is a story from burial ground to the vibrant Parque Los Andes. This park offers a serene escape. It sits in the heart of Buenos Aires. It’s bordered by Avenida Dorrego, Guzmán, Federico Lacroze and Corrientes.
Once, this land was part of La Chacarita de los Colegiales. It belonged to the Jesuit college of San Ignacio. Later in the 19th century, the land was divided. Some was sold. Another part became state property.
In 1871, a yellow fever epidemic swept through Buenos Aires. The governor, Emilio Castro, established a cemetery here. This was the first section of what is now Parque Los Andes. By 1886, the cemetery was full. It closed. Eleven years later, the remains were moved. They went to the new Chacarita cemetery. It is still in use today. The area was then transformed.
In 1904, the newly planned park was named Parque Los Andes. Before that, it was called Rancagua. This transformation turned a place of sorrow into a space for community.
Look around. You can see people strolling along winding paths. Many trees provide shade. Birds chirp. This creates a relaxing atmosphere. Parque Los Andes is a gathering place. Local artists display their work here. Families enjoy picnics. Open spaces invite visitors to unwind. They can read or simply enjoy the beauty.
Notice the trees. Tipas line the Corrientes side. They have yellow flowers and thick branches. Weekends bring a large crafts fair. Artisans display various objects.
Take a closer look at the monument of Los Andes. It stands near Avenida Corrientes. The sculptor Luis Perlotti created it in 1941. The bronze sculpture represents indigenous people. These people inhabited the Andes from north to south. They include the Calchaquí, Tehuelche and Ona. The sculpture pays tribute to their heritage.
Underneath part of Parque Los Andes lies another secret. Since 1925, the Rancagua workshops of Line B, the Buenos Aires Subte, have been here. There is also a garage. It has space for 110 cars. During construction, more human remains were found from the old cemetery.
In 2005, the city government began restoring the park. They added perimeter fences. They prevent access at night. The project was completed in December 2006.
Now, Parque Los Andes is a place of importance for indigenous people. The city declared it a Site of Interest of the Native People. You can find shrines to the Virgin. Also, there is a shrine to Gauchito Gil. A small image of Difunta Correa sits in what looks like a water fountain.
Consider visiting early in the morning. You can enjoy the tranquility and sunrise views. You can pack a picnic. Then enjoy lunch under the trees.
Parque Los Andes is more than just a park. It is a place of remembrance. It is a place of community. It is a place of beauty. It’s a testament to Buenos Aires’ ability to transform and honor its past.