Resources for Travel in Argentina – Luján & Buenos Aires' Public Transport and Recoleta Cemetery

Posted by Karin-Marijke Vis Aug 17, 2009

Every October and November, Luján – nearby Buenos Aires – is a popular place of pilgrimage and I always wonder how something like this comes into existence. In 1630 a man was on his way north with his oxcart but got stuck in the mud. No matter how many goods they offloaded, the cart wouldn't budge – until somebody removed a tiny statue of the Virgin, and miracle oh miracle, the cart moved on. Thus it was taken as a sign that this "Virgencita" wanted to stay put in Luján.

A shrine was constructed and a pilgrimage site developed. In time a settlement grew up around it and in the 20th century a huge basilica replaced the shrine. Each year thousands of people walk the 65 kilometres between Buenos Aires [from Linears] to Luján to pay their respects to this statue of the Lady. When I see how people touch the statue in admiration and devotion, how they cross themselves and bring offers, I can't help wondering how this is compatible with a monotheistic religion.

Below are links to informative articles about Buenos Aires and Luján. Enjoy!

Aug 7, 2009

El Cementerio de Recoleta in Buenos Aires: Tour Argentina's City of Angels to Visit Evita Perón's Grave

City of Angels, City of the Dead, or City of Cats - they all refer to the necropolis of Recoleta's cemetery which forms one of Buenos Aires' major tourist attractions. more...

Jul 14, 2009

Argentina – Transportation in Buenos Aires: Forms of Public Transport in Capital Federal and Gran Buenos Aires

Metro, taxi and walking are good means of transportation within Capital Federal. Bus, train and remis are the preferred forms of public transport for Gran Buenos Aires. more...

Jul 3, 2009

Museum of Banco de la Provincia de Buenos Aires: The History of Argentina's Banking District in Capital Federal

Argentina's first bank was founded in Buenos Aires in 1822. Others followed and their history is displayed in architectural buildings and museums in Capital Federal. more...

Jul 13, 2009

Argentina – Churches in Buenos Aires: A Basilica, a Convent and an Anglican Cathedral in Capital Federal

Two churches deserve a place on Buenos Aires' sightseeing list: St. John's Anglican Cathedral and Basílica de NS de la Merced with the convent of San Ramón. more...

Sep 5, 2008

Argentina – Basilica Nuestra Señora in Luján: La Virgencita of the Basilica of Luján Attracts Millions of Pilgrims

The Capital of Faith is not only a place of pilgrimage, where pilgrims honor the Virgin of Luján; visitors also enjoy the marvelous architecture of the Basilica. more...