Museo del Área Fundacional, Mendoza Travel Guide

The Museo del Área Fundacional (MAF) stands on Plaza Pedro del Castillo, the very spot where Pedro del Castillo founded Mendoza in 1561. This area served as the city's heart, hosting the Cabildo (Town Council) until the catastrophic earthquake of 1861 destroyed it. The museum, inaugurated in 1993, safeguards and displays the archaeological remnants unearthed from this historically significant site.The museum's exhibits reveal Mendoza's evolution. Dioramas, photographs, and scale models illustrate the city's historical trajectory. Visitors can view artifacts recovered during excavations, including objects dating back to the earthquake. The underground chamber preserves the remains of a fountain built in 1810 to supply water to the population. Also visible are remnants of an oven, providing evidence of the Huarpe indigenous presence 2,000 years before the Spanish conquest.The museum also features a collection of paintings and sculptures by local artists. Guided tours are available, offering deeper insights into the exhibits. The surrounding Plaza Pedro del Castillo provides a serene space to relax and reflect after exploring the museum.