National University Of The Arts

National University of the Arts (UNA) Buenos Aires: Comprehensive Visitor Guide

Date: 03/07/2025

Introduction

The National University of the Arts (Universidad Nacional de las Artes, UNA) stands as Argentina’s leading institution for arts education and a cornerstone of Buenos Aires’ vibrant cultural scene. With origins dating back to 1875, UNA has continually evolved, integrating diverse disciplines such as visual arts, music, dance, theater, multimedia, and folklore. Its campuses, located in culturally rich neighborhoods like San Telmo, Almagro, and Puerto Madero, provide visitors with unique access to exhibitions, performances, and museums—including the renowned Museo de la Cárcova, home to one of Latin America’s largest collections of classical sculpture casts.

UNA invites art lovers, students, and tourists to explore its public galleries, theaters, and workshops, many of which are accessible free of charge or at minimal cost. The university’s facilities are adapted for accessibility and are well-connected by Buenos Aires’ extensive public transportation network. Guided tours, special events, and nearby cultural landmarks further enrich the visitor experience.

This guide provides all the essential information and practical tips needed to fully enjoy UNA as both an educational institution and a cultural landmark, ensuring an immersive encounter with Argentina’s historical and contemporary artistic legacy (UNA Official Website, UniPage, Museo de la Cárcova).

Historical Evolution of UNA
Planning Your Visit
Institutional Overview and Academic Highlights
Facilities and Resources for Visitors
Artistic Life and Community Engagement
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Notable Alumni and Cultural Impact
Summary and Final Tips
References

Historical Evolution of UNA

Early Foundations (1875–1920s)

UNA’s roots trace back to the National Society of the Stimulus of the Arts established in 1875 by artists including Eduardo Schiaffino and Eduardo Sívori. This organization evolved into the National Academy of Fine Arts in 1905, marking the formalization of arts education in Argentina. By 1923, the Academy was incorporated into the University of Buenos Aires as the Academy of Applied Arts, later becoming the National Superior School of the Arts (ESNA).

Expansion and Diversification (1920s–1980s)

Throughout the 20th century, specialized institutions flourished: the Museum of Reproductions and Comparative Sculpture (1927), the National Institute of Theatrical Studies (1936), and the Carlos López Buchardo National Conservatory of Music significantly expanded the artistic landscape of the city.

Unification and Modernization (1985–2014)

Democratic reforms after 1983 led to the consolidation of various arts institutes under the Instituto Universitario Nacional del Arte (IUNA) in 1993, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration.

Becoming the Universidad Nacional de las Artes (2014–Present)

In 2014, IUNA became the Universidad Nacional de las Artes (UNA), reflecting its expanded national role and commitment to comprehensive arts education.

Planning Your Visit

Hours and Tickets

General Campus Hours: Most UNA buildings and galleries are open Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM–6:00 PM. Hours may vary for performance venues and during special events.
Museo de la Cárcova: Open Tuesday to Friday, 11:00 AM–5:00 PM, and Saturday, 1:00 PM–5:00 PM. Check the museum’s website for updates.
Admission: Entry to most exhibitions, galleries, and campus events is free. Special performances or exhibitions may require advance ticket purchase or registration (UNA Official Website).

Guided Tours and Events

Guided Tours: Offered periodically, focusing on history, architecture, and current artistic initiatives. Advance booking is recommended.
Events: UNA hosts exhibitions, theater, dance, concerts, and film screenings throughout the year. Many events are open to the public and free of charge. For a schedule, consult the UNA event calendar.

Accessibility and Getting There

Public Transportation: UNA campuses are centrally located and easily accessible by bus, subway (Subte), and by bicycle using the free EcoBici program (turismo.buenosaires.gob.ar).
Key Campuses:
- Bartolomé Mitre (Visual Arts): Bartolomé Mitre 1869
- French (Multimedia Arts): French 3614
- Venezuela (Music): Venezuela 2587
- Museo de la Cárcova: Avenida España 1701
Accessibility: Most buildings are adapted for visitors with mobility challenges. Contact the university or specific departments in advance for particular needs.

Nearby Attractions

UNA’s locations are ideal for exploring Buenos Aires’ historical and cultural highlights:

Plaza San Martín
Palacio Paz
Teatro Colón
San Telmo market
Puerto Madero waterfront

Institutional Overview and Academic Highlights

UNA is organized into faculties specializing in:

Visual Arts: Painting, sculpture, printmaking, and art education
Dramatic Arts: Acting, directing, stage design
Movement Arts: Dance and choreography
Multimedia Arts: Digital and audiovisual arts
Music and Sound Arts: Performance and composition

Undergraduate degrees (Licenciatura) typically take 4–6 years, with a range of postgraduate options available. The university is known for its robust public programming and international academic collaborations (UniPage).

Facilities and Resources for Visitors

Studios and Workshops: Open during special events, offering firsthand views of student work.
Performance Spaces: Theaters and concert halls regularly host public productions.
Museo de la Cárcova: An exceptional collection of over 700 plaster casts of classical sculptures, alongside contemporary art exhibitions.
Libraries and Archives: Each department maintains specialized libraries; rare collections are accessible to researchers (UNA Sedes).
Exhibition Spaces: Regular art shows, often featuring student and faculty creations.
Event Participation: UNA is prominent in citywide cultural events like “La Noche de los Museos” (Buenos Aires Museums).

Artistic Life and Community Engagement

Performances and Exhibitions: UNA offers a dynamic calendar of theater, dance, music, and multimedia events.
Workshops and Masterclasses: Open to the public, providing opportunities for creative engagement.
International Programs: Artist residencies, exchanges, and collaborations with institutions worldwide.
Community Outreach: Partnerships with local cultural centers and neighborhood organizations.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What are UNA’s visiting hours?
A: Most campuses are open Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM–6:00 PM. The Museo de la Cárcova has separate hours (see above).

Q: Is there an entrance fee?
A: General admission to campuses and most exhibitions is free. Special events may require tickets.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, but booking in advance is advised. Check the UNA website for schedules.

Q: How do I get to UNA?
A: UNA campuses are accessible by subway, bus, and bike. Use a SUBE card for transit or EcoBici for cycling.

Q: Is UNA accessible for visitors with disabilities?
A: Most facilities offer accommodations. Contact departments in advance for details.

Notable Alumni and Cultural Impact

UNA’s alumni include renowned figures such as actor Julio Chávez and dancer Noelia Marzol. The university’s influence resonates throughout Argentina’s cultural landscape, contributing significantly to the arts, education, and public discourse.

Summary and Final Tips

Visiting the National University of the Arts (UNA) provides a multifaceted experience at the intersection of Argentina’s artistic traditions and contemporary innovation. With accessible facilities, free or affordable cultural programming, and proximity to major Buenos Aires attractions, UNA is ideal for both local and international visitors.

Plan ahead: Check the UNA Official Website for current hours and event listings.
Explore nearby: Combine your visit with other cultural sites for a full-day itinerary.
Stay connected: Follow UNA on social media and download the Audiala app for real-time updates and personalized guides.

Immerse yourself in one of Latin America’s most significant cultural institutions and discover the creative pulse of Buenos Aires through UNA’s exhibitions, performances, and educational offerings (UNA Official Website, UniPage, Museo de la Cárcova).