El Palomar history

Foundation and Historical Roots

The origins of the city of El Palomar are inextricably linked to the colonial era and the land holdings of the Casero family. The settlement owes its name to the famous circular dovecote (or palomar in Spanish), erected by Diego Casero in 1788. This architectural structure, which has survived to this day, became the main symbol and landmark of the area long before official city boundaries appeared.

Key Development Factors

The transformation of private lands into an important settlement, which Argentina takes pride in today, was driven by several key factors:

• The Railway: The opening of the railway station in 1910 became a powerful stimulus for population influx and trade development, connecting the district with the capital.
• Military and Educational Institutions: The establishment of the National Military College and the creation of an airbase (later an airport) here gave the city strategic importance and accelerated infrastructure development.
• Geographical Location: Proximity to Buenos Aires facilitated the natural integration of El Palomar into the expanding metropolitan agglomeration.

Early Cultural and Economic Features

In the early period of its existence, the territory was distinguished by a pronounced agrarian character: farms, fruit orchards, and pastures prevailed here. The Casero estate served as the centre of local life and witnessed important historical events of the 19th century, including the Battle of Caseros. Gradually, with the development of transport, the rural lifestyle gave way to urban culture, turning El Palomar into a cosy and green suburb with a rich historical heritage.

Development Chronology

• 1788: Diego Casero erects the famous circular dovecote on his lands, which would subsequently give the name to the city of El Palomar.
• February 3, 1852: The historic Battle of Caseros takes place on the estate grounds, ending the rule of Juan Manuel de Rosas and opening a new era for the entire country.
• 1910: The grand opening of the railway station, ensuring regular connections with the capital and stimulating an influx of new residents.
• 1937: Completion of construction and inauguration of the National Military College building complex on the historic lands of the Casero family.
• 1949: The First Air Brigade is based at the local airfield, cementing the city's status as an important aviation centre, a source of pride for Argentina.
• 1963: Launch of a major automotive plant (originally SAFRAR), which became one of the key industrial enterprises of the region.
• September 19, 1974: El Palomar officially receives city status at the legislative level of the Buenos Aires Province.
• 1983: The historic Casero House and the dovecote are declared a National Historic Monument, guaranteeing their preservation.
• 2010: Large-scale celebration of the city's centenary, accompanied by cultural events and the renovation of public spaces.
• 2018: The local airport begins serving commercial civil flights, temporarily becoming a hub for low-cost airlines.

Milestones of Development and Transformation

The history of the transformation of the city of El Palomar from a rural area into a significant urban centre is filled with events that defined its modern appearance. The main stages of development are linked to transport, industry, and the preservation of unique heritage.

• Railway Integration (1910): The opening of the San Martín line station was the main driver of urbanization. This event brought the territory out of isolation, turning it into an accessible suburb and launching the first wave of active residential construction.
• Formation of an Institutional Cluster (1937): The opening of the National Military College complex set the vector for urban planning. Thanks to this institution, extensive green zones have been preserved in the city, becoming an important environmental asset.
• Aviation Specialization (1949): The placement of the First Air Brigade at the local airfield gave the city a strategic status. The airbase became an integral part of the district's identity and a vital link in the defence infrastructure developed by Argentina.
• Industrial Breakthrough (1963): The launch of the car factory (initially SAFRAR, later Sevel and PSA) radically changed El Palomar's economy. The enterprise became the largest employer, attracting engineers and workers, which contributed to the growth of the middle class.
• Administrative Recognition (1974): The granting of official city status consolidated its demographic and economic success. This allowed for improved management of municipal services and accelerated the development of urban infrastructure.
• Consolidation of Cultural Status (1983): Declaring the historic Casero estate and dovecote a National Monument was a key moment for cultural tourism. This decision guaranteed the preservation of the 18th-century architectural landmark amidst modern development.
• Development of Commercial Aviation (2018): Adapting the military airfield for civil flights, albeit with varying intensity of use, opened new logistical opportunities and demonstrated the city's potential as a transport hub for the capital region.

Architectural Evolution and Urban Planning

The architectural appearance of the city of El Palomar represents an eclectic combination of colonial heritage, state monumentalism, and cosy mid-20th-century residential development. Unlike many settlements developed by Argentina on a strict rectangular grid (the "chessboard" layout), the planning of this district was largely dictated by the location of major facilities: the railway, the airbase, and military institutions, around which residential neighbourhoods formed.

Colonial Style (18th–19th Centuries)

The oldest and most significant architectural layer is the heritage of the Viceroyalty era. The main representative of this period is the historic Casero estate.

• Rural Colonial Architecture: The famous dovecote (Palomar), which gave the city its name, is a rare example of functional architecture from the late 18th century. The circular brick structure with three tiers and a conical roof demonstrates the skill of the masons of that time and the aesthetics of utilitarian structures in colonial estates.

Academicism and Monumentalism (1930s)

In the first half of the 20th century, state construction brought features of strictness and grandeur to the city's appearance, characteristic of public buildings of that era.

• National Military College Complex: Built in 1937, this ensemble is the district's dominant feature. Its architecture leans towards simplified neoclassicism and rationalism, emphasizing monumentality and order. The massive buildings are surrounded by extensive park zones, which became an important city-forming factor limiting dense urbanization.

The "Garden City" Concept and Residential Development (Mid-20th Century)

The greatest influence on the residential sector of El Palomar came from the urban planning ideas of the 1940s and 1950s, implemented in the immediate vicinity, in the Ciudad Jardín (Garden City) district, and spreading to the surrounding areas.

• Picturesque Style: Residential neighbourhoods are characterized by chalet-style houses with tiled pitched roofs, the use of brick and stone in finishing, as well as front gardens.
• Street Layout: Unlike the strict centre, peripheral zones are characterized by a freer layout, an abundance of alleys, and greenery, creating the atmosphere of a tranquil suburb.

Industrial Architecture and Modernity

With the development of industry in the 1960s (the PSA Peugeot Citroën plant), large industrial volumes were integrated into the urban landscape. Modern El Palomar combines these historical layers with typical low-rise commercial development along the main avenues, whilst maintaining a balance between industrial power and the comfort of old residential quarters.

Famous Residents and Historical Figures

The city of El Palomar has become the birthplace and home to many talented people who have brought fame to it not only at the regional level but also globally. From historical figures to modern rock stars, these individuals have made an invaluable contribution to the cultural heritage cherished by Argentina.

• Diego Casero
  Landowner and Historical Figure (18th Century)
  Owner of vast lands on which the famous dovecote was erected in 1788. His activities laid the foundation for the future settlement, and the architectural monument he built gave the city its modern name.
• Gustavo Santaolalla
  Composer, Musician, and Producer
  One of the country's most awarded musicians, a two-time Oscar winner (for the scores to "Brokeback Mountain" and "Babel"). Born in El Palomar, where he also founded the band Arco Iris, which pioneered the fusion of rock with folklore.
• Jorge Donn
  Ballet Dancer
  A legendary 20th-century dancer and muse of choreographer Maurice Béjart. A native of the local community, he became an icon of world ballet, forever inscribing his name in the history of the art of dance.
• Ricardo Mollo
  Rock Musician, Guitarist
  The permanent leader of the band Divididos and a member of the cult band Sumo. He spent his childhood and youth in El Palomar, which was reflected in his creative development as one of the key figures of Argentine rock.
• Andrés Ciro Martínez
  Singer and Composer
  Leader of the famous band Los Piojos, formed in the immediate vicinity of the city (in Ciudad Jardín). His musical career is closely linked to the local cultural scene of the 1990s.
• Sabrina Garciarena
  Actress and Model
  A popular film and television actress who has achieved success in international projects. Born and raised in this area, she maintains a connection with her roots.