Joaquín Samuel De Anchorena

Joaquín Samuel De Anchorena: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Buenos Aires Historical Sites Guide

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction to Joaquín Samuel De Anchorena

Joaquín Samuel de Anchorena (1876–1961) is celebrated as one of Buenos Aires’ most influential mayors, remembered for transforming the city into the vibrant, cosmopolitan “Paris of South America.” As an urban planner, politician, and patron of the arts, his legacy is visible in the city’s green spaces, public works, and cultural institutions. Anchorena leveraged his patrician background to spearhead modernization efforts, enhance public health infrastructure, and foster Buenos Aires’ cultural ascendancy. Today, visitors can explore a rich array of sites linked to his vision, from grand palaces and lush parks to iconic transport systems and bustling neighborhoods.

This guide offers a comprehensive overview of Anchorena’s historical significance, practical visitor information (including visiting hours, ticketing, and accessibility), and essential cultural insights. Whether you are a history enthusiast or an explorer seeking authentic local experiences, this article will help you navigate Buenos Aires through the lens of Anchorena’s enduring legacy. For official updates and resources, consult the Buenos Aires City Government, Recoleta Cemetery Official Site, and Teatro Colón (Cityzeum Guide).

Joaquin de Anchorena and Manuel de Campos Sales toasting at Buenos Aires Deliberative Council in 1912

President Hipólito Yrigoyen at cattle exhibition in Sociedad Rural Argentina

President Hipólito Yrigoyen and Joaquín de Anchorena walking at exhibition

Introduction
Early Life and Family Background
Political Career and Mayoralty
Anchorena’s Legacy in Buenos Aires
- Key Historical Sites
- Anchorena and the Jockey Club
Practical Visitor Information
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Urban Transformation and Essential Sites
Cultural and Institutional Legacy
Visiting Palacio Anchorena and Related Sites
Cultural Insights and Local Experiences
Notable Nearby Attractions & Immersive Experiences
Conclusion
References and Further Reading

Early Life and Family Background

Born into the prominent Anchorena family, of Basque origin, Joaquín Samuel de Anchorena benefited from his family’s extensive landholdings and agricultural enterprises. This privileged upbringing provided him with access to premier education and influential social networks, positioning him to lead major political and civic initiatives (Buenos Aires City Government).

Political Career and Mayoralty

Appointment as Mayor of Buenos Aires

Anchorena served as the city’s mayor (Intendente) from October 1910 to October 1914, a transformative era for Buenos Aires. His tenure coincided with the centennial of Argentine independence, a period marked by rapid immigration, economic growth, and ambitious urban projects (Municipal Archive of Buenos Aires).

Urban Modernization and Public Works

Under Anchorena, Buenos Aires experienced major infrastructural improvements, including the expansion of boulevards, construction of monumental civic buildings, and development of parks and green spaces. He prioritized public health by expanding sewer and water systems, laying the groundwork for further urban expansion (Buenos Aires Urban Development).

Civic and Cultural Initiatives

Anchorena’s administration championed the arts, supporting the inauguration of public monuments, theaters, and museums. These initiatives cemented Buenos Aires’ reputation as a hub of Latin American culture.

Anchorena’s Legacy in Buenos Aires

Key Historical Sites to Visit

Palacio Anchorena (Palacio San Martín): This grand palace in Retiro, now home to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, stands as a testament to early 20th-century architectural ambition. Though interior access is limited to scheduled guided tours, the exterior can be admired year-round (Buenos Aires Tourism Office).
Palacio Municipal (City Hall): Located in the Monserrat neighborhood, City Hall features a marble bust of Anchorena and is accessible to the public during business hours (9 AM–5 PM, weekdays). Entry is free (Buenos Aires City Hall).
Recoleta Cemetery: Anchorena’s family mausoleum is among many ornate tombs in this iconic cemetery. Open daily from 8 AM–6 PM, the cemetery offers guided tours and is accessible with some assistance (Recoleta Cemetery Official Site).

Anchorena and the Jockey Club

As president of the Jockey Club, Anchorena played a pivotal role in shaping Buenos Aires’ elite social life. The club occasionally opens its doors for cultural events, offering a unique glimpse into the city’s aristocratic traditions (Jockey Club Buenos Aires).

Practical Visitor Information

Visiting Hours and Tickets

Palacio Anchorena: Exterior accessible at any time; interior tours by appointment only.
Palacio Municipal: Open weekdays 9 AM–5 PM; free entry.
Recoleta Cemetery: Open daily 8 AM–6 PM; entrance fee approx. ARS 150; guided tours available.

Accessibility

Both Recoleta Cemetery and Palacio Municipal are wheelchair accessible, though some areas may require assistance. The exterior of Palacio Anchorena is accessible from public sidewalks.

Unique Visitor Experiences

Walking tours highlighting Anchorena’s contributions.
Photography of Belle Époque architecture.
Seasonal cultural events in historic neighborhoods.

Travel Tips

Best Time to Visit: Spring (September–November) for mild weather and blooming jacarandas.
Where to Stay: Recoleta and Monserrat neighborhoods offer proximity to major sites.
Getting Around: Walk within neighborhoods; use taxis, Uber, or the subway (Subte) for longer distances.
Etiquette: Respect heritage sites and public art.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Are tickets required for Anchorena-related sites?
A: Palacio Anchorena is available for exterior viewing without tickets. Palacio Municipal is free to enter during business hours. Recoleta Cemetery requires a small entry fee.

Q: What are the operating hours for these sites?
A: Palacio Municipal: 9 AM–5 PM (weekdays). Recoleta Cemetery: 8 AM–6 PM (daily).

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, several operators offer guided tours focusing on Anchorena’s legacy and Buenos Aires’ history.

Q: Is Recoleta Cemetery accessible for visitors with disabilities?
A: Yes, with some areas requiring assistance.

Urban Transformation and Essential Sites

El Rosedal (Rose Garden): Hours, Tickets, and Tips

Located in the heart of Palermo, El Rosedal is one of Anchorena’s most celebrated contributions. Redesigned by Carlos Thays and Benito Carrasco, the garden boasts over 18,000 rose bushes, elegant bridges, and classical statuary.

Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM–6:00 PM (seasonal variations possible)
Entry: Free
Accessibility: Wheelchair-accessible paths
Guided Tours: Available through local operators and tourism offices

Tip: Visit in spring (October–November) for peak bloom. Nearby attractions include the Botanical Garden and National Museum of Decorative Arts.

(Official Buenos Aires Parks Website)

Línea A Subway: Tickets and Experience

Inaugurated in 1913 under Anchorena, Línea A is Latin America’s first subway line.

Hours: ~5:30 AM–11:30 PM daily
Tickets: ARS 42 per ride (SUBE card required)
Historic Features: Period carriages and stations
Accessibility: Partial; some stations lack elevators

Tip: Ride Línea A for a historical journey and combine it with visits to Plaza de Mayo and San Telmo.

(Official Buenos Aires Subway Website)

City Hall Expansion and Urban Planning

Anchorena expanded City Hall and oversaw the opening of diagonal avenues (Presidente Roque Sáenz Peña and Presidente Julio Argentino Roca) to improve traffic flow.

Walking Tours: Explore these diagonals to appreciate the city’s urban evolution. Landmarks include the Obelisk and Metropolitan Cathedral.
Accessibility: Fully accessible.

Parque Avellaneda

One of the city’s green lungs, Parque Avellaneda was championed by Anchorena to offer recreational space beyond the city center.

Location: Avellaneda neighborhood
Hours: Daily, 7:00 AM–8:00 PM
Entry: Free
Accessibility: Wheelchair-friendly paths

Calle Florida Pedestrianization

Anchorena’s municipal reforms included the pedestrianization of Calle Florida in the afternoons, now a bustling shopping and cultural thoroughfare.

Hours: Pedestrian-only, typically 2:00 PM–7:00 PM

Cultural and Institutional Legacy

Teatro Colón: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Tours

Anchorena served as president of the world-renowned Teatro Colón.

Location: Cerrito 628
Guided Tours: 9:00 AM–5:00 PM daily, ARS 900 (approx.)
Performances: Tickets vary; advance booking advised
Accessibility: Fully accessible

(Teatro Colón Official Website)

Jockey Club and Gran Premio Internacional Joaquín S. de Anchorena

Race Day: Annually in November at the Hipódromo de Palermo
Tickets: Vary by event
Accessibility: Wheelchair-accessible

(Hipódromo de Palermo Official Site)

Sociedad Rural Argentina and Instituto Biológico

Anchorena advanced agricultural research as president of the Sociedad Rural Argentina and founder of the Instituto Biológico.

Event: Exposición Rural (July, ticketed)
Accessibility: Fully accessible

Palacio Anchorena (Palacio San Martín)

A French neo-classical masterpiece by Alejandro Christophersen, Palacio Anchorena (now Palacio San Martín) is a landmark of Argentine aristocracy.

Location: Arenales 761, Retiro
Tour Access: Limited, by appointment through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Argentina Ministry of Foreign Affairs)
Photography: Permitted outside; interior access restricted

Fernández Anchorena Palace

Located at Avenida Alvear 1637 in Recoleta, this Second Empire palace was home to President Marcelo Torcuato de Alvear and is now the Apostolic Nunciature.

Access: Exterior viewing only

Fuente Anchorena (Diana Cazadora Fountain) and Ecoparque

Situated in Ecoparque Buenos Aires, the Diana Cazadora Fountain is an early 20th-century public art piece in lush surroundings.

Plan Ahead: Guided tours at Palacio San Martín are by reservation; check Buenos Aires Tourism Office.
Public Transportation: SUBE cards are required for buses and Subte; bring ID for registration.
Taxis/Ride-Sharing: Widely available.
Accessibility: Historic buildings may have limited access; inquire ahead as needed.

Cultural Insights and Local Experiences

Green Spaces in Porteño Culture

The Bosques de Palermo and Rosedal, developed during Anchorena’s era, are central to Buenos Aires’ social life—perfect for mate, picnics, and outdoor events (Touropia).

Art, Architecture, and Urban Identity

Neighborhoods like Palermo and Recoleta are renowned for their mix of Belle Époque mansions, modernist buildings, and vibrant murals. Public art and regular outdoor exhibitions reflect the city’s creative spirit (Cityzeum Guide).

From classic parrillas to contemporary eateries, Buenos Aires’ culinary scene is deeply social. Enjoy asado, pastries like medialunas, and helado in local cafés and parks (Touropia).

Tango and Nightlife

Palermo’s trendy bars, milongas, and venues like Café de los Angelitos or El Querandí offer tango experiences that highlight the city’s passion and communal energy (Cityzeum Guide).

Festivals and Community Events

Anchorena’s neighborhoods host cultural festivals, art fairs, and markets such as Feria de Plaza Francia. The Buenos Aires Tango Festival in August is a major highlight.

Responsible Tourism

Respect public spaces, support local artisans, and engage with the community for a meaningful and sustainable visit.

Notable Nearby Attractions & Immersive Experiences

Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes: Free admission, world-class art (Cityzeum Guide).
Japanese Garden: Serene, beautifully landscaped.
Recoleta Cemetery: Architectural marvel, final resting place of Eva Perón (Wandering Wheatleys).
Avenida Alvear: Historic hotels and luxury boutiques, reflecting European influence (Travel and Itinerary).
Guided Tours: Themed walks and bike tours delve into local history, architecture, and cuisine.

Conclusion

Joaquín Samuel de Anchorena’s legacy is deeply woven into Buenos Aires’ urban landscape and cultural identity. From grand boulevards and lush parks to historic palaces and world-class theaters, his vision continues to shape the city’s contemporary vibrancy. Visitors can experience this rich heritage by exploring landmark sites, participating in cultural events, and immersing themselves in the unique rhythms of Buenos Aires. For the latest updates, downloadable maps, and insider tips, download the Audiala app and follow our social media channels.