Mar del Plata is a summer classic. Due to its beaches, gastronomic offer and its great nightlife, “la happy” attracts thousands of tourists.
But this year is special. Because what is also known as “the pearl of the Atlantic” meets 150 years since its foundation, on February 10, 1874.
Below, a small selection of 5 must-sees, between classic symbols, gastronomic attractions and newer proposals, to include in a visit to Mar del Plata.
1) Monk’s Keep
It’s one of the city icons. There is a legend and an official history around the place. The first is a story of forbidden love between a Spaniard and an indigenous woman.
The other is less romantic: Ernesto Tornquist commissioned the construction of this building to the German architect Karl Nordmann and was inaugurated in 1904.
Since then, the Belvedere Tower, as it was originally called, has remained a symbol of the city, creating with the sea in the background the undisputed postcard of Mar del Plata.
In the heart of the Gothic style castle, and with a privileged view of the sea, is the cafe and restaurant Monk’s Tower. Open every day, it is a perfect meeting point for breakfast, brunch, lunch and afternoon tea. For reservations: (0223) 486-4000 or by WhatsApp at +54 9 223 4218377.
The place also has a Beach club. Facilities include swimming pools, changing rooms, tents and umbrellas.
2) Bridge House
It is one of the architectures most recognized of the 20th century worldwide and is framed within the modern movement. It was built between 1943 and 1945 by the Argentine architect Amancio Williams for his father, the musician and composer Alberto Williams.
Located at 3998 Quintana Street, on land that covers two blocks, one of the great attractions is that the stream passes underneath The Ponds which gave rise to the Foundation of Mar del Plata in the 19th century.
It opened to the public for the first time this summer. Photo Municipality of General Pueyrredón. Between 1970 and 1977 the LU9 Mar del Plata station operated there until the last military dictatorship closed the station and the house was uninhabited until 2004. During that period of time the Casa del Puente suffered robberies and also fire on two occasions, which caused serious structural damage.
The restoration works were recently completed and you can visit free of charge from Monday to Friday at 10, 12 and 14. Prior reservation required (bit.ly/CasaSobreElArroyo) and Availability remains for mid-March.
3) Pedrito’s Pizzeria
It was founded by Sicilian immigrant Don Pedro Vento in 1952, who arrived in Mar del Plata escaping World War II.
It is one of the gastronomic places of worship of this destination. Setting foot in Pedrito is to once again be part of an almost extinct Mar del Plata, that of the old still lifes They had no television or background music: only the noise of people and the iron-clad refrigerators with wooden fronts.
Located in La Perla, just meters from the maritime boulevard, the star of this pizzeria is the clay oven which has been in operation for more than 60 years.
Some pizzas that stand out They are: Triple (tomato sauce and mozzarella), Real (tomato sauce, mozzarella and bell peppers), bacon, fugazza, roquefort, mushrooms and provolone, among others.
4) Antares Brewery
It’s the first craft brewery from Mar del Plata. It was founded in 1998 and on December 19 turned 25 years old.
At the Bar de Fábrica, located on 12 de Octubre Street, they offer guided tours to learn more about the production process.
In addition to having a pint, tourists can learn first-hand about the inputs and processes with which this craft beer is made.
This bar has 25 taps and all the brand’s styles are offered. In these summer months, you can also get Fragaria, a limited edition beer made with red fruits from Sierra de los Padres and has a slight acidity.
5) Theater Club
It is an alternative for those looking independent proposalsaway from the large marquees.
During the summer season there are different plays. Valanaveva It is one of those that is being presented and is produced by Teatro de la Universidad.
The property also operates a cooperative radio, a cinema club and an exhibition hall. It’s a cultural space well from Mar del Plata and with a fresh proposal where you can also enjoy good cinema.