Parroquia Ntra. Sra. de la Guardia

A sanctuary of faith. This is how one could describe the Parroquia Ntra. Sra. de la Guardia. Here at the intersection of Avenida Zapiola and Avenida Belgrano, it stands as a testament to the devotion of a Genovese immigrant and the enduring spirit of Bernal. Parroquia Ntra. Sra. de la Guardia’s story intertwines with that of Agustín Pedemonte, who arrived in Argentina in 1849. He settled in La Boca, where he erected an altar to the Virgen de la Guardia at the Parroquia San Juan Evangelista, crediting her with his recovery from an accident. When cholera swept through Buenos Aires in 1886, Pedemonte sought refuge in Quilmes. He purchased land in Bernal and built his home, naming it “Polcevera” after a river in his homeland. Recognizing Bernal’s lack of a church, Pedemonte invited the Salesians to establish a presence. He donated land for a church and school, dedicated to his beloved Virgen de la Guardia, patron saint of Genoa. Construction of the chapel, seminary, and Salesian school began in 1890. Parroquia Ntra. Sra. de la Guardia held its first mass on Christmas Eve 1894, even though the building was unfinished. The Salesian novices arrived on February 11, 1895, and the official inauguration took place later that year. The ceremony included Governor Guillermo Udaondo and Bishop Juan Nepomuceno Terrero of La Plata. Pedemonte later petitioned the Archbishopric of La Plata for the church’s official recognition as a parish. This was granted on July 2, 1914. Pope Benedict XV declared it a sanctuary in 1919. The original structure eventually proved too small for the growing community. A new church, the one we stand before today, was inaugurated in 1954, becoming a beloved landmark. Interestingly, the original building was later repurposed as a cinema and theater. In 1986, Bishop Jorge Novak of Quilmes proclaimed the Virgen de la Guardia as the principal patron saint of Bernal. Parroquia Ntra. Sra. de la Guardia is more than just a building. It is a vital part of Bernal’s identity. It’s a place of worship, a community hub, and a symbol of faith that continues to inspire.