ESMA Museum and Site of Memory – A Comprehensive Guide for Tourists

Overview

Welcome! In this guide, we will explore the ESMA Museum (Esma de la Memoria) located in Buenos Aires, Argentina. The museum stands on the site of the former Naval Mechanics School (ESMA), which served as a clandestine center for detention, torture, and extermination during Argentina’s last military dictatorship from 1976 to 1983.

Historical Context

The Dirty War was a period of state terrorism in Argentina where an estimated 30,000 people were killed or disappeared under the military regime. The ESMA played a significant role in these atrocities as it became one of the main clandestine detention centers during this time.

About the ESMA Museum

The ESMA Museum opened in 2004 and is dedicated to preserving the memory of the victims and survivors, fostering reflection on Argentina’s dark past, and promoting human rights. The museum is a mix of permanent and temporary exhibitions, memorial spaces, and educational programs.

Exhibitions and Memorial Spaces

Permanent Exhibition

The Permanent Exhibition provides a detailed account of the events that took place at ESMA during the Dirty War. It includes testimonies from survivors, photographs, videos, and artifacts such as personal belongings of victims. The exhibition is divided into four sections:

1. The School: Explores the history of the Naval Mechanics School before it became a clandestine detention center.
2. Detention: Describes the methods used for detaining individuals, including fake arrests and kidnappings.
3. Torture and Extermination: Details the systematic torture and extermination that took place within ESMA’s walls.
4. Memory: Commemorates the victims, survivors, and families who suffered during this time.

Temporary Exhibitions

The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions related to human rights issues in Argentina and other parts of the world. These exhibitions aim to raise awareness about ongoing struggles for justice and freedom.

Memorial Spaces

Two memorial spaces are located on the premises:

1. The Patio of Memory: A quiet, contemplative space where visitors can remember the victims of ESMA and reflect on the events that took place there.
2. The Garden of Hope: A tranquil garden filled with trees representing each province in Argentina. The garden serves as a symbol of hope for a better future without state terrorism.

Visiting Information

Location

ESMA Museum is located at Avenida Pedro de Mendoza 1325, Vicente López, Buenos Aires. It’s easily accessible by public transportation, including buses and the subway.

Opening Hours

The museum is open Tuesday to Sunday from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Closed on Mondays and national holidays.

Admission

Admission is free, but donations are welcome. Guided tours in Spanish, English, Portuguese, French, German, Italian, Russian, and Chinese are available upon request.

Useful Tips for Your Visit

1. Allow at least 2 hours to fully explore the museum.
2. Wear comfortable shoes as there is a fair amount of walking involved.
3. The exhibitions can be emotionally challenging, so take care of yourself and consider bringing tissues.
4. Photography is permitted in most areas, but some spaces require permission from museum staff.
5. Guided tours are highly recommended to gain a deeper understanding of the history and context.
6. Respect the silence and solemnity of the memorial spaces.
7. Refreshments are available at the museum’s cafeteria.

Conclusion

The ESMA Museum offers a powerful, thought-provoking experience for visitors. By understanding Argentina’s tragic past, we can work towards ensuring that such events never happen again. We hope this guide helps you make the most of your visit to the ESMA Museum and Site of Memory in Buenos Aires.