Puente Viejo in San Antonio de Areco was built in 1857 and is a National Historic Monument. The Parish Church of San Antonio de Padua also holds this designation. San Antonio de Areco itself dates back to 1728 and preserves architecture in the colonial style typical of that era. As you explore the town, you’ll encounter several historical landmarks: a building with a precisely documented date, another national monument, and the town’s long history.
Local History and Gaucho Tradition
The Museo de la Ciudad and Centro Cultural Usina Vieja present the origins and early history of San Antonio de Areco. The Museo Las Lilas de Areco offers a different perspective, with its significant collection of original works by artist Florencio Molina Campos. The Museo de Arte Gauchesco “La Recova” features a large mural that artistically depicts the history of the Pago de Areco. Together, these museums offer different ways to explore the town’s history and art, from its beginnings to an artistic portrayal of the region.
Parque Criollo Ricardo GĂĽiraldes and the Museo Gauchesco were created to preserve gaucho tradition and the legacy of Ricardo GĂĽiraldes. The Reserva Natural Parque Criollo is also located on the grounds of Parque Criollo. It preserves two Pampas habitats, Pastizal Natural and Talar. The grounds thus highlight both cultural heritage and the preservation of characteristic habitats.
Crafts, Art, and Local Specialties
Areco’s traditional crafts include silversmithing, rawhide braiding, saddlery, and weaving. MaLaLi Esquina del Arte is a gallery in San Antonio de Areco displaying paintings, sculptures, textiles, ceramics, and jewelry. Exhibitions and programming may change. At Areco’s artisanal pastry shops, you can sample local chocolate and alfajores. Alongside museums and historic buildings, local crafts and sweet specialties are among the discoveries the town has to offer.
Festivals and History in Town and the Surrounding Area
The program for the 83rd Fiesta de la TradiciĂłn in San Antonio de Areco in 2022 included live music, traditional dances, and a parade; typical foods were also part of that edition. The program and food offerings may vary from one edition to the next. The first Fiesta del DĂa de la TradiciĂłn, associated with San Antonio de Areco, has its own historical connection: it took place in the area around the town in 1939.
The partido also includes the rural town of Vagues. Its former railway station opened in 1894 and remained in operation until 1992. It was later converted into an interpretation center exploring railway heritage, working life, and social change in San Antonio de Areco. Vagues also has a regular date on the local calendar: every year on July 14, the town holds its patronal celebration in honor of Saint Camillus de Lellis.
Riverside and Getting There
The Costanera is a recreational area along the banks of the RĂo Areco, a few blocks from the main square. Cultural events and activities take place throughout the year at various locations in San Antonio de Areco. They complement the town’s historical and museum offerings with more opportunities to experience the area in different ways.
By road, San Antonio de Areco is accessible via Ruta Nacional 8. Public bus routes run to the destination from Buenos Aires and other towns in the province.
Discover more destinations: San Antonio de Areco, Duggan, Villa LĂa, BahĂa Blanca Partido, San Vicente Partido, Avellaneda Partido, Alberti Partido, JunĂn Partido.
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