Villa Yerua

Do you hear the echoes of tango music and the thundering hooves of racehorses? This unassuming chalet, Villa Yerua, holds more than meets the eye. Behind its charming facade lies a treasure trove of history and legend, inextricably linked to two iconic figures: Carlos Gardel, the king of tango, and Francisco Maschio, the “Wizard of Olleros” and horse racing legend. Villa Yerua was originally a summer retreat for Maschio. He named it after his birthplace, Puerto Yerua, in Argentina. Maschio, a renowned horse trainer, used the beaches of Malvín to train his prized thoroughbreds. It was during these summers that a deep friendship blossomed between Maschio and Gardel. Drawn together by their shared passion for horses and the good life, Gardel became a regular visitor to Villa Yerua. Imagine them, two legends in their own right, enjoying the tranquility of the seaside, the thrill of the races, and the soulful melodies of tango. The villa still whispers with tales of their camaraderie. One can almost picture Gardel, guitar in hand, serenading guests on warm summer nights, his voice echoing through the halls. The villa even played a role in horse racing history. It’s said that the legendary jockey, Irineo Leguisamo, lived in the villa’s upstairs quarters while working with Maschio. Rumor has it that Leguisamo would sneak out in the wee hours, using a back staircase that still exists today, to indulge in his own nighttime adventures. Today, Villa Yerua stands as a testament to a bygone era. It has been meticulously restored to its former glory and transformed into a museum. Inside, you’ll find a collection of photographs, memorabilia, and even a life-size sculpture of Gardel and Leguisamo, forever immortalizing their bond.