Ernesto De La Cárcova

Ernesto de la Cárcova Museum: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Buenos Aires Historical Sites Guide

Date: 03/07/2025

Introduction

Nestled in the tranquil Costanera Sur district of Buenos Aires, the Museo de Calcos y Escultura Comparada Ernesto de la Cárcova stands as a premier destination for art lovers, students, and travelers interested in Argentina’s cultural heritage. Established in 1928 to honor the renowned painter and educator Ernesto de la Cárcova, the museum houses Latin America’s largest collection of plaster casts, offering a comprehensive journey through the history of sculpture—from ancient Egypt and Greece to the Renaissance and pre-Columbian America. As both a repository of global art and a vibrant center for educational programs, the museum serves as a bridge between past and present, academic study and public appreciation. This detailed guide provides all the essential information for planning your visit, including opening hours, ticketing, accessibility, highlights of the collection, and travel tips to help you make the most of your experience in Buenos Aires (Museo de la Cárcova, UNA; 33Travels; Museonica).

Portrait of Argentine painter Ernesto de la Cárcova in front of his artwork Sin pan y sin trabajo

Portrait of Argentine painter and sculptor Ernesto de la Cárcova

Facade and bust of the Ernesto de la Cárcova Museum of Comparative Sculpture in Buenos Aires

Group portrait of painters Eduardo Schiaffino, Eduardo Sívori, Ángel Della Valle, Ernesto de la Cárcova, Lucio Correa Morales, Augusto Ballerini, and Augusto Boncotti at Sociedad Estímulo de Bellas Artes in 1893

Introduction
History and Founding of the Museum
Collection and Academic Integration
Visiting Information: Hours, Tickets, Accessibility
Museum Architecture and Setting
Highlights and Unique Experiences
Nearby Attractions in Buenos Aires
Visitor FAQs
Practical Travel Tips
Plan Your Visit and Stay Connected
Key References

History and Founding of the Museum

The Museo de la Cárcova was founded in 1928, inspired by the vision of Ernesto de la Cárcova (1866–1927), a pivotal figure in Argentine art and education. De la Cárcova’s commitment to academic excellence led to the creation of the Escuela Superior de Bellas Artes and the Academia Nacional de Bellas Artes. His passion for making art accessible to all resulted in the collection of high-quality plaster casts representing classical, Renaissance, Gothic, and pre-Columbian works, many sourced directly from institutions like the Louvre and the British Museum. Initially envisioned as an educational resource, the museum quickly became integral to the curriculum of art schools, blending European traditions with Argentine identity (The Art Bog; Aura Arte).

Over time, the museum’s role expanded through its integration with the Universidad Nacional de las Artes (UNA), developing into a dynamic center for research, conservation, and public engagement. Today, the collection exceeds 700 pieces and encompasses a broad spectrum of Western and pre-Columbian art.

Collection and Academic Integration

The museum’s collection is renowned for its “primera colada” (first-pour) plaster casts—faithful reproductions of masterpieces such as the Venus de Milo, Michelangelo’s David and Moses, and works from Egyptian, Greek, Roman, and Mesoamerican civilizations. The Pre-Columbian Art Room, added in the 1990s, features unique reproductions of indigenous American artifacts, some of whose originals have been lost. The museum’s academic affiliation with UNA ensures ongoing educational activities, including hands-on workshops in ceramics, lithography, and printmaking, as well as a Diplomatura in museum mediation and guiding (Museo de la Cárcova, UNA).

The museum also serves as a platform for contemporary art interventions, such as the “Diálogos con el Patrimonio” series, encouraging a living dialogue between historical works and current artistic practices (Museonica).

Visiting Information: Hours, Tickets, Accessibility

Address: Av. España 1701, Costanera Sur, Buenos Aires, Argentina
Opening Hours:
- Winter (April–September): Tuesday–Sunday, 10:00 AM–5:00 PM
- Summer (October–March): Tuesday–Sunday, 11:00 AM–7:00 PM
- Closed on Mondays and national holidays (Museo de la Cárcova, UNA)
Admission: Free entry; suggested donation of 1,000 ARS to support the museum’s educational and conservation programs (Buenos Aires Turismo)
Guided Tours: Available on weekends or by prior arrangement; can be conducted in Spanish or English (Museo de la Cárcova Guided Visits)
Accessibility: The museum is fully accessible, with ramps, accessible restrooms, and a tactile exhibit for visually impaired visitors (La Guía de Buenos Aires). Staff are available to assist visitors with special needs.

Museum Architecture and Setting

The museum is housed in a historic early-20th-century building, originally constructed as municipal stables and adapted for museum use. Its high ceilings, wide corridors, and large windows provide ample natural light and a sense of grandeur. The grounds include a peaceful sculpture garden, featuring both original works by Argentine artists and areas for students from UNA to work and display their creations (El Ojo del Arte). The museum’s proximity to the Reserva Ecológica enhances its tranquil atmosphere and makes for an ideal combination of culture and nature.

Highlights and Unique Experiences

Extensive Collection: Over 700 plaster casts, including iconic works such as the Venus de Milo, Winged Victory of Samothrace, Michelangelo’s David and Moses, and unique pre-Columbian pieces (Museonica).
Sculpture Garden: An outdoor space that blends art with nature and offers insight into contemporary Argentine sculpture.
Workshops and Educational Programs: Regularly scheduled activities in ceramics, printmaking, and restoration, open to all ages and skill levels.
Tactile Exhibit: Enables visually impaired visitors to experience masterpieces through touch.
Temporary Exhibitions and Events: The museum frequently hosts concerts, artist talks, and contemporary art interventions, keeping the experience fresh and engaging.

Nearby Attractions in Buenos Aires

Reserva Ecológica Costanera Sur: A short walk from the museum, this urban nature reserve offers trails for walking, birdwatching, and picnicking.
Puerto Madero: Modern waterfront district with restaurants, cafes, and the iconic Puente de la Mujer pedestrian bridge (Trek Zone).
La Boca: Renowned for its colorful houses and tango tradition, just a 20–30 minute walk away.
Parque Lezama and San Telmo: Historic park and neighborhood, ideal for a stroll and further cultural exploration.

Visitor FAQs

Q: What are the museum’s visiting hours?
A: Tuesday–Sunday, 10:00 AM–5:00 PM (winter), 11:00 AM–7:00 PM (summer). Closed Mondays and holidays.

Q: Is admission free?
A: Yes, with a suggested donation of 1,000 ARS.

Q: Is the museum accessible for visitors with disabilities?
A: Yes, it features ramps, accessible restrooms, and a tactile exhibit.

Q: Are guided tours available in English?
A: Yes, with advance notice.

Q: Can I take photographs inside the museum?
A: Non-flash photography is generally permitted, but check for specific restrictions.

Q: What’s the best way to reach the museum?
A: The museum is easily accessible by public transport (bus, taxi) from central Buenos Aires; parking is limited.

Practical Travel Tips

Duration: Allocate at least 1–2 hours for your visit; more if attending a workshop or guided tour.
Language: Most information is in Spanish; some materials are available in English, and English-speaking guides can be arranged.
Best Times: Weekday mornings are quieter; weekends may be busier due to events and school visits.
Facilities: Lockers, accessible restrooms, and a gift shop are available. The building is climate-controlled, making it a good option year-round.

Plan Your Visit and Stay Connected

Official Website: https://museodelacarcova.una.edu.ar/
Phone: +54 9 11 4361-4419
Instagram: @museodelacarcova.una
Email: Use the official website contact form

For up-to-date information on exhibitions, events, and workshops, check the official website and follow the museum on social media. Download the Audiala app for guided audio tours and real-time updates on Buenos Aires’ cultural attractions.

Key References

Summary

The Museo de Calcos y Escultura Comparada Ernesto de la Cárcova is not only a treasure trove of sculptural masterpieces but also a living institution devoted to art education and cultural engagement. Its vast collection, accessible facilities, and location near other major attractions make it an essential stop for anyone interested in the arts or Buenos Aires history. Plan your visit, participate in a workshop, or simply enjoy the serene setting as you explore centuries of artistic achievement.

Ready to discover more? Download the Audiala app for guided tours, and follow us for more travel guides and cultural insights. The Ernesto de la Cárcova Museum is your gateway to the world of sculpture in Buenos Aires.