Paso del Rey

Gazing across the vast expanse of the Reconquista River, picture the scene at Paso del Rey centuries ago. Paso del Rey wasn’t named for a king’s visit. It earned its name, “King’s Ford,” from the royal carts that traversed this crucial river crossing. This ford at Paso del Rey was a lifeline for travelers journeying between Buenos Aires, Alto Perú, and Chile. They relied on a natural limestone outcrop to navigate the waters, long before bridges or modern roads. This bustling passage was more than just a ford. It was a vital artery in the region’s growth and connection to the wider world. Charles Darwin himself might have crossed this very ford in 1833, on his expedition from Buenos Aires to Luján. Imagine him observing the landscape, noting the river’s flow and the travelers making their way across. The area held a unique significance, bridging not just two riverbanks, but also different cultures and economies. The name Paso del Rey became more firmly established when Senator Amancio Jacinto Alcorta named his nearby ranch “Estancia Paso del Rey.” This further solidified the area’s connection to the historical crossing. Fast forward to 1938. The British-owned Buenos Aires Western Railway Co. opens a railway stop between Moreno and Merlo, thanks to textile businessman Amadeo Regules. This event officially marks the founding of the town of Paso del Rey. While the ford may be gone, replaced by bridges and railways, the spirit of connection and passage remains strong. The town, with a population of over 41,000, still thrives on the banks of the Reconquista River. It stands as a testament to the enduring importance of this historical crossing point. From a simple ford used by Darwin to a bustling railway town, Paso del Rey’s story is one of transformation and growth, deeply intertwined with the river that shapes its identity.