Recoleta And The Recoleta Cemetery

Only the best is in Recoleta, including the Recoleta Cemetery. But it wasn’t always that way.

The Recoleta Cemetery in Recoleta is a Argentina history book that comes to life with heavenly architecture and unbelievable sculptures. It is where Eva Peron is buried but there is far more in this wealthy neighborhood of Recoleta Buenos Aires to discover and experience. Recoleta is perched on one of the highest hills in Buenos Aires and was the perfect look out for bandits and pirates. It was also a jumping off point for travelers to the interior. And during another era, the Recoleta monks built a monastery and the amazing Basilica Our Lady of Pilar, which still stands today. 400 years ago, during the centennial celebration, the Spaniard that owned this area was in need of a suit for the event. It was difficult to find one in those days; in fact there was a severe shortage of clothing. The man traded this entire area for a suit.

Before 1871 in Buenos Aires history, many of the well to do citizens lived in San Telmo. But due to a severe yellow fever epidemic, the upper society was forced to abandon their homes and neighborhoods and seek a safer environment. Recoleta was the perfect location.

 

Argentina was one of the richest nations in the early 1900’s and Recoleta became one of the wealthiest neighborhoods. The most affluent people of the time designed enormous mansions here and socialized along Alvear Ave. The famous Jockey Club became the center for political activity and later would be crucial for Argentina history and critics of Eva Peron.

 

When the automobile was introduced, Recoleta was the first neighborhood to have them. On the weekends there were car races near the cemetery and great social events, which spawned many outdoor cafes and restaurants along Ortiz Ave. One of the oldest is Café Beila, which is still there today. The Recoleta Cemetery was opened for ordinary people in 1822 but as Recoleta’s reputation improved, so did that of the cemetery. Now many presidents and historic figures important to Buenos Aires history are buried there. So often, murderers are buried very close to the people they murdered. The architecture styles of the tombs range from neo classic to art deco and the some of the sculptures have declared national historic monuments.

Eva Peron (Evita) is now buried in Recoleta Cemetery after her remains endured quite an adventure. Her dead body was stolen, copied, hidden, and then stolen again.

Firpo, “The wild bull of the Pampas” was the first Hispanic boxer to challenge for the world’s heavyweight championship. He now rests next to a fantastic sculpture.

Jaun Maunel de Rosas ruled Argentina for 20 years with a strong and often brutal fist. He hunted down many people who opposed him and killed them. Many of which are buried very near his vault.

Today, the neighborhood is teaming with culture, shopping, nightlife, restaurants, museums and history. The Recoleta cemetery is one of the most visited attractions in Buenos Aires. In fact it is the most visited cemetery in South America.