Plaza Libertad

Interesting facts

1. 1

   The square was originally known as the Hueco de Zamudio before being officially inaugurated as a park in 1862.

2. 2

   A bronze statue of General Juan Antonio Lavalle, sculpted by Pedro Costa, stands at the center of the park.

3. 3

   The plaza was once the site of a humble chapel dedicated to San Nicolás de Bari before the area was urbanized.

4. 4

   It is historically significant as the site where the 'Libertad' district, known for its proximity to high-society residences, began to take shape in the late 19th century.

Overview

Plaza Libertad is one of the oldest public squares in Buenos Aires, historically established in the 17th century as a peripheral market area. The plaza is framed by the French-style architecture of the surrounding Retiro neighborhood. It features a prominent monument dedicated to General Juan Antonio Lavalle, a central figure in the Argentine War of Independence. The grounds include well-maintained grassy lawns and mature trees that provide significant shade. Despite being located in a dense urban corridor, the park serves as a localized retreat for professionals and residents. The perimeter is bounded by Libertad, Cerrito, Paraguay, and Marcelo T. de Alvear streets. It functions primarily as a transitional green space within the city's central business district. The square sits adjacent to several significant historical and cultural institutional buildings.

Insider tips

• Visit during the weekday lunch hour to observe the local office culture of the Retiro district.

• Use the perimeter benches for a vantage point of the contrasting classic and modern architecture of the surrounding buildings.