18th Century galleon discovered in Puerto Madero open to the public
The Government of the City of Buenos Aires has inaugurated the walkways that allow visitors to admire the 18th century Spanish galleon unearthed in Puerto Madero on December 28, 2008. The old ship will be exhibited until July 5, 2009, when it will be buried again to prevent it from being destroyed.
Argentine builders stumbled across the wreck of this 18th century Spanish galleon while digging the foundations for a riverside high-rise building in Buenos Aires.They have discovered several canons and well-preserved earthenware jars that were probably used to store olive oil.
The remains of the galleon were found on a building site and archeologists from Buenos Aires city government think the boat was probably shipwrecked some 300 years ago. This 18th-century Spanish galleon was one of thousands that carried goods across the Atlantic when Argentina was a Spanish colony.
The 35 meters long walkway in a horseshoe shape allows the public to appreciate the vessel from every angle.
Entrance is free, but visitors must register to make the visit. Click here to complete the reservation form.
Location: Rosario Vera Penaloza and Juana Manso, Puerto Madero
Hours:
Monday to Friday, 12.00 noon to 6.00 pm
Saturdays and Sundays, 10.00 am to 6.00 pm
Guided visits:
In Spanish: every day
In English: Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays, 3.00 pm to 5.00 pm
In Portuguese: Monday to Friday 11.00 am to 1.00 pm, and Saturdays 3.00 pm to 5.00 pm.
The visits are canceled in case of rain. People will have to register again in this case.
For security reasons, children under 5 are not allowed to visit.
An ID of the main applicant and his/her companion must be presented on the day of the visit, plus the confirmation email.
More information: National Geographic website (in Spanish only)