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El Zanjón de Granados: Unearthing Buenos Aires' Hidden Past

Explore Buenos Aires' hidden history through ancient tunnels and remarkable architecture at El Zanjón de Granados in San Telmo.

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El Zanjón de Granados is a captivating museum in the San Telmo neighborhood of Buenos Aires, revealing the city's history through a network of subterranean tunnels dating back to the 18th century. Visitors explore the remnants of ancient streets and structures, offering a glimpse into the city's evolution.

A brief summary to El Zanjón de Granados

Local tips

  • Book your tour in advance, as they are required and can fill up quickly.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for navigating the narrow passageways and uneven surfaces of the tunnels.
  • Bring your camera to capture the fascinating sights of this underground labyrinth; photography is encouraged.
  • Check the official website for the most up-to-date tour schedules and special events.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    El Zanjón de Granados is located in the heart of the San Telmo neighborhood, making it easily accessible on foot from many nearby attractions. From Plaza Dorrego, walk three blocks along Defensa Street. The museum will be on your right at Defensa 755.

  • Public Transport

    Several bus lines stop near El Zanjón de Granados. You can take bus lines 24, 29, 130, or 152 to reach the museum. Alight at a stop on Avenida Defensa close to the intersection with Avenida San Juan. From there, walk a short distance to Defensa 755. Remember to have a SUBE card for payment. The minimum bus fare is approximately ARS 270.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Cabify are readily available in Buenos Aires. A short taxi ride from the city center (e.g., Plaza de Mayo) to El Zanjón de Granados will typically cost between ARS 5,500 and ARS 11,000, depending on traffic and time of day. Be sure the driver uses the meter, or agree on a fare beforehand.

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Discover more about El Zanjón de Granados

El Zanjón de Granados offers a unique journey into the depths of Buenos Aires' history, located in the traditional San Telmo district. This remarkable archaeological site unveils a hidden network of tunnels, sewers, and cisterns that formed the foundation of one of the city's earliest settlements. In the 16th century, the area was crisscrossed by open creeks, providing water for early settlers. As Buenos Aires expanded, these waterways were enclosed, eventually becoming part of an underground sewer system by the late 19th century. In 1830, Marcos Miguens, a member of Buenos Aires' elite, finalized the construction of what is now El Zanjón de Granados. The original structure, built around 1880 for the Ezeiza family, later became a tenement house. The property fell into disrepair after a yellow fever epidemic caused wealthy residents to flee to neighborhoods like Recoleta. In 1985, Jorge Eckstein purchased the abandoned property and began a massive restoration project. The project led to the rediscovery of the long-forgotten underground tunnels, transforming the site into an archaeological wonder. Today, El Zanjón de Granados is a museum that showcases five centuries of Buenos Aires' urban and architectural evolution. Guided tours lead visitors through the tunnels, revealing the city's transformation from colonial times to the present.

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