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Juan Carlos Castagnino Municipal Art Museum: A Glimpse into Argentina's Artistic Heritage

Explore Argentine art and architecture in a stunning Art Nouveau villa, a cultural gem in Mar del Plata's Stella Maris Hill.

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Housed in the stunning Ortiz Basualdo Villa, a National Monument of Argentina, the Juan Carlos Castagnino Municipal Art Museum showcases an impressive collection of Argentine art from the 19th century to contemporary works. The villa itself, designed in an eclectic Art Nouveau style, is a masterpiece, offering a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of a prominent Argentine family in the early 20th century.

A brief summary to Juan Carlos Castagnino Municipal Art Museum

  • Monday 2 pm-7 pm
  • Thursday 2 pm-7 pm
  • Friday 2 pm-7 pm
  • Saturday 2 pm-7 pm
  • Sunday 2 pm-7 pm

Local tips

  • Visit on a weekday afternoon for a less crowded experience.
  • Take your time to admire the Art Nouveau interiors and original furniture.
  • Explore the surrounding gardens for a peaceful retreat after viewing the art.
  • Check the museum's website for temporary exhibitions and cultural events.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Casino Central, walk along the seaside promenade towards the north. Continue along Boulevard Marítimo Patricio Peralta Ramos, enjoying the ocean views. After approximately 15-20 minutes, turn slightly inland onto Av. Colón. The museum will be on your left, a distinctive stone villa on Stella Maris Hill.

  • Public Transport

    Several bus lines stop near the Juan Carlos Castagnino Municipal Art Museum. From the city center, take a bus that travels along Av. Colón. Check local bus routes and schedules for the most convenient option. A single bus fare typically costs around ARS 50-100. Alight near the intersection of Av. Colón and Calle Arenales. The museum is a short walk from the bus stop.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available in Mar del Plata. From the city center or the bus terminal, a taxi ride to the Juan Carlos Castagnino Municipal Art Museum will take approximately 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic. The estimated fare is ARS 800-1500. Ask the driver to take you to the Museo Castagnino on Av. Colón, Stella Maris Hill.

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Discover more about Juan Carlos Castagnino Municipal Art Museum

The Juan Carlos Castagnino Municipal Art Museum, located in Mar del Plata, Argentina, is more than just an art museum; it's a journey through time and Argentine culture. The museum is housed in the Ortiz Basualdo Villa, a magnificent structure built in 1909 as a summer residence for the prominent Ortíz Basualdo family of Buenos Aires. Designed by architects Luis Dubois and Pablo Pater, the villa exemplifies an eclectic Art Nouveau style, reminiscent of French castles in the Loire Valley. In 1980, the villa was transformed into the Juan Carlos Castagnino Municipal Art Museum, named after the renowned local realist painter and muralist. The museum's collection features nearly 600 works, including paintings, sculptures, lithographs, and photographs, primarily by Argentine artists. Visitors can admire works by Antonio Berni, Alberto Bruzzone, Prilidiano Pueyrredón, Luis Seoane, and Raúl Soldi, in addition to the 138 works by Juan Carlos Castagnino himself. The villa's interior, designed by Belgian architect and cabinetmaker Gustave Serrurier-Bovy, is considered one of the world's finest examples of Art Nouveau. The original Belgian furniture, the oak and wrought iron staircase adorned with flowers and geometric lines, the lamps, and the stained-glass windows all contribute to the villa's unique charm. The surrounding gardens offer a tranquil escape, inviting visitors to stroll and reflect on the art and history they have experienced. The museum not only preserves and exhibits Argentine art but also hosts temporary exhibitions and cultural events, making it a vibrant hub for locals and tourists alike. Declared a Cultural Heritage of the City of Mar del Plata in 1995 and a National Monument of Argentina in December 2020, the Juan Carlos Castagnino Municipal Art Museum stands as a testament to the city's rich cultural heritage.

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