The Town of Luján has its origin back on the first foundation of Buenos Aires, in 1536, and its name derives from Captain Pedro de Luján, a member of the expedition sent by Pedro de Mendoza to explore the zone, who was killed by the local Indians on the banks of the river now bearing his name.

But it was not until 1671, when the Sanctuary of the Virgin Mary was built, and the town was founded and started to grow. Since then, it became a required passing point on the routes to the north and the west. Besides, it was a pass over the Luján River, and hence the seat of a control post whose purpose was to check the coming and going of goods with the purpose of avoiding smuggling.

It is said that the image of the Virgin, which came from Paracaiba, in Brazil, and was sent to Sumampa, in Santiago del Estero by a Portuguese, was made by a Brazilian potter with fired clay from Brazil. Now, the original statue is protected and preserved by a silver bell that gave it the characteristic shape by which it is nowadays known all over the world.

Luján possesses a great cultural and historical heritage, which is proven by the most notable buildings of colonial origin and in its cultural establishments, amongst which the traditional National University of Luján is the most important. The historic centre of the city marks a very rich stage on colonial history for it houses authentic testimonies of the country's history.

Located 67 km west of Buenos Aires, it has numerous alternatives to go on one-day tours or mini tours. It is one of the most important weekend tourist destinations and a famous pilgrimage centre, much cherished by all Catholics, besides being tinted with a historic past full of events.

The nearness of the Luján River and its municipal resort, make of this city an exceptional place to rest and take a stroll. Visitors can find recreational areas on the riverbanks, historic places, estancias close to the city, amusement parks and, of course, the Basilica of the Virgin of Luján, the main attraction of this interesting and religious city.

PLACES OF INTEREST

Basilica of the Virgin of Luján
It is impossible to visit Luján and not enter this imposing temple, whose cornerstone was laid in the year 1887 while its construction finished in 1935. Its two high church towers stand out with their needles rising up to 106.5 m. Its niches shelter statues of the evangelists and the apostles.

Its seven naves for the circulation of the devotees, the height of its columns and its wonderful stained glass windows, stand out on the inside, showing a strong influence of French gothic style. The most attended place is without doubt the chapel of the Virgin, whose upper part is also part of the main altar.

The internal layout of the basilica, of notable grandiosity, represents the image of Jesus Crucified: the main altar, being His head, the altars of the transept, His extended arms; and the main nave pricked by the lateral arches, His body sending purified blood to the confessionary cubicles placed on the sides.

It was made a National Historic Monument in 1998. 1, San Martin Av, in front of Belgrano Plaza.

Zoo of Luján
This place, located at the km 58 of the West Access (Gaona), between General Rodriguez and Luján, has been part of an estancia; hence it has an aged and diverse woodland. Species such as lions, deer, pumas, elephants, monkeys and sea wolfs can be observed easily in this estate. This zoo keeps most of the animals in a state of semi-freedom and some can even be caressed by children, since they are duly looked after by specialised handlers. It has 15 hs that include a camping park, a grill sector, soccer fields, swimming pool, restaurants with typical dishes, and a bakery where children can learn how to make bread. It is open from 8:00 to 21:00 hours. Information: (02323) 43-5738.

Enrique Udaondo Museum
Located in the block surrounded by Lavalle, 25 de Mayo, Lezica y Torrezurri Stts, and Nuestra Señora de Luján Av, it is the most important museum complex in the country and one of the largest in America. Its huge patrimonial richness is renowned even beyond the national borders.

The facility was brought into being after the union of two of the oldest buildings in the Province of Buenos Aires, which are kept as they were originally: the Town Hall and the House of the Viceroy, consecrated as National Historic Monuments in the year 1942. The place is divided in five areas that have a total of eight exhibition rooms open to the public, a chapel and the Peña Library, opened in 1979.

You can visit the following installations:

Town Hall: it is a building of thick adobe walls, an attic and a two-sloped roof with Spanish tiles. It was created by orders of Fernando VI, King of Spain; it was seat of the Town Hall of Luján, and held the prisoners of the English invasions in 1806. General Jose Maria Paz in 1835 and Generals Machado and Bartolomé Mitre have also spent their time there.

Gaucho Room: customs and traditions go hand in hand all along this tour through time, whose main character is the gaucho. It houses original garments, local silverworks, elements linked to the history of the mate and the gaucho singers, and the local retail shops.

Federal Room: it tells in images the history of Juan Manuel de Rosas, the law restorer, his family and the most outstanding events that took place during his administration. It also holds paintings and suites together with his personal belongings.