Capilla del Señor was the first town in Buenos Aires province to receive the designation of 'National Historic Town' in 1994.
The town's original chapel, from which the name 'Capilla del Señor' is derived, dates back to 1735.
The square is flanked by the Parish of the Exaltation of the Cross, which contains an image of the town's patron saint brought from Peru in the 18th century.
The area surrounding the plaza is known for its well-preserved 'pulperías' and colonial-style masonry buildings.
The town was founded in 1735 by Francisco Casco de Mendoza on his own land, making it one of the oldest settlements in the region.
Plaza San Martín serves as the central hub of Capilla del Señor, the first town in the Buenos Aires province to be declared a National Historic Town. The square is defined by its colonial-era layout and features a central monument dedicated to José de San Martín. It is surrounded by preserved 19th-century architecture, including the parish church and the local town hall. The plaza functions as the social and civic heart of the community, hosting regional craft fairs and weekend cultural events. Its landscape includes mature trees, manicured garden beds, and traditional wrought-iron benches. The surrounding area preserves the character of a rural Argentine village from the late 1800s. It is situated in the Exaltación de la Cruz district, approximately 80 kilometers from the city of Buenos Aires.
The elevated central monument area facing the historic Parish church.
Visit on a Sunday to witness the weekly artisan market where local crafts and regional delicacies are sold.
Combine your visit with a walking tour of the surrounding streets to see the protected historic façades.
Bring a thermos and 'mate' supplies, as this is the primary local spot for traditional afternoon socialization.
Do not expect high-paced tourist infrastructure or large-scale retail outlets; the town is intentionally quiet and preservation-focused.
Respect the quiet nature of the church grounds immediately adjacent to the plaza; avoid loud music.
