The Evita Museum is a must-visit for people who want to find out a little more about the figure of Eva Perón. One of the most recurring questions from foreigners who visit Argentina is why Eva Perón is so revered by a significant sector of the population and, with her, Peronism as a system of ideas and beliefs.
Visiting the Evita Museum allows you not only to take in the magnitude of the work and significance of Eva Perón; You will also be able to see what many people feel when remembering and evoking her figure.
It is, in short, an ideal visit to deepen your historical knowledge about Argentina. Here we will explain what the Museum has to offer you and what you can do or see there.
Evita Museum (Buenos Aires): Everything You Need to Know Before Your Visit
What is the Evita Museum?
The Evita Museum preserves and promotes the legacy of Eva Perón, Argentina’s first lady from 1946 to 1952. She played a significant role in advocating for women’s suffrage and social rights for the underprivileged. Eva Perón founded the Eva Perón Foundation and promoted several social initiatives to support children and women.
History and Inauguration
The museum opened its doors on July 26, 2002, commemorating the 50th anniversary of Eva Perón’s death. It was established to showcase collections contributed by the Duarte – Álvarez Rodríguez family and donations from individuals.
The Building
The museum is housed in the “Casa Carabassa,” located at Lafinur 2988. This building was declared a national historical site and a cultural interest site.
It was built in 1923 by architect Estanislao Pirovano as a single-family residence. In 1948, the Eva Perón Social Aid Foundation acquired it to establish a transit home for women in need.
Collections
The museum’s collection includes Eva Perón’s personal belongings, clothing, family memorabilia, and awards. Highlights include dresses and accessories she wore in public appearances and films, with designs by Christian Dior and Paco Jamandreu. The collection also features items from her social work, such as toys and civic books.
Exhibitions and Features
The museum offers a vivid experience using modern technology to bring Eva Perón’s story to life. It features permanent and temporary exhibitions, guided tours, and cultural activities. Visitors can explore the museum’s interior and exterior, including a restaurant and bar in the courtyard.
Mission
The museum aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of Eva Perón’s life and work, inviting students, teachers, researchers, and the general public to learn about this crucial part of Argentina’s history.
Where is the Evita Museum located?
The Evita Museum is situated in the Palermo neighborhood of Buenos Aires, specifically at Lafinur Street, between Las Heras and Juan María Gutiérrez. Nearby, you’ll find prominent green spaces like the Ecoparque, the Botanical Garden, the Japanese Garden, and the Rosedal.
This area of Palermo is known for its beautiful surroundings, including other museums, cafes, and various gastronomic and commercial offerings. Major avenues like Las Heras, Santa Fe, del Libertador, Scalabrini Ortiz, and Coronel Díaz also run through this neighborhood.
Whether you’re exploring the more commercial areas of Palermo or heading towards Recoleta and Retiro, you’ll find this zone of Buenos Aires to be safe and tranquil, making it an ideal location for a visit.
How to get to the Evita Museum?
The most accessible way to reach the Evita Museum is by subway. The D line has a station at Scalabrini Ortiz, a 7-block walk from the museum, and another at Plaza Italia, which is 3 blocks away.
You can also take the Mitre and San Martin rail lines, which have stations close to the museum.
For those preferring buses, numerous lines run along Avenida Santa Fe (12, 29, 36, 39, 55, 68, 111, 152) and Avenida Las Heras (10, 15, 37, 41, 59, 60, 64, 93, 95, 108, 110, 118, 128, 141, 160, 188).
During weekends, it’s convenient to visit by car or bicycle, given the ample green spaces and wide avenues. Parking can be challenging, so consider using a taxi or Uber.
Guided Tours
For General Public
The museum offers guided tours in English, Spanish, and Portuguese for groups of at least 10 people, available from Tuesday to Sunday, 11 AM to 6 PM, lasting about 45 minutes. Reservations are required.
For Independent Visitors
Independent visitors pay a higher fee if they are foreigners, while natives pay half the price. The museum allows free roaming of its halls, except in the dress section where photography is prohibited. The museum also features a bar/restaurant and a gift shop.
Why visit the Evita Museum?
Explore the Life of Eva Perón
Eva Perón is a pivotal figure in Argentine history, not only as the first lady but also as the president of the Female Peronist Party and the Eva Perón Foundation. Despite her early death in 1952, her efforts in advocating for women’s voting rights and social justice for the underprivileged remain influential.
Understand Eva Perón’s Legacy
The museum provides a comprehensive understanding of Eva Perón’s impact on Argentine society. It offers insights into her actions, thoughts, and continued recognition by a significant portion of the population.
Objects, Archives, and Audiovisual Guide
Visitors can access an audiovisual guide on their phones for an enriched experience. The museum features videos and projections of Eva Perón’s public speeches, along with archives and personal items, including documents related to major historical events.
Eva Perón’s Dresses
The museum showcases various dresses worn by Eva Perón, highlighting her impeccable style influenced by her background as an actress and public figure. Note that photography of the original dresses is prohibited.
Art Inspired by Eva Perón
A dedicated gallery features artworks inspired by Eva Perón, emphasizing different aspects of her personality, historical significance, and legacy.
Gift Shop and Restaurant
The museum includes a gift shop where you can purchase souvenirs, clothing, home items, accessories, children’s toys, and publications related to Eva Perón. Additionally, a restaurant offers a seasonal menu with fresh ingredients, providing a pleasant dining experience in an indoor or outdoor setting.
