An 1830 estate that belonged to one of Argentina's most traditional families is for sale

An 1830 estancia once owned by one of Argentina’s most traditional landowning families is now up for sale. The property, known as Los Aromos, dates back to its original construction in 1830 and is located in the area of Coronel Vidal, within the partido of Mar Chiquita, Buenos Aires province. It was originally built for Emilio Pereyra Iraola, a descendant of one of the country's most influential landholding families. The Pereyra Iraola lineage played a key role in introducing the Hereford cattle breed to Argentina during the 19th century, marking their significance in the nation’s agricultural history. Over the course of nearly two centuries, the estancia has passed through several hands and undergone various uses. Its current owners acquired it in 2005. At that time, they were advised to demolish the existing structure and build a more modern residence, given the advanced state of disrepair. However, they chose instead to preserve and restore the historic property. This decision echoed previous efforts by prior owners, notably the Hiriart family, who had also faced similar recommendations and opted to renovate rather than replace. The Hiriart family had previously owned the estancia before the current proprietors. They recounted how they came to acquire the property during a period often described as the “hippie era.” According to accounts, the former owners were individuals with long hair and a penchant for unconventional music, leading to the nickname “La casa de los hippies,” or “The House of the Hippies.” The Hiriarts noted that the property had been left in a state of neglect, yet they saw potential in its historical value and decided to take on the challenge of restoration. During their tenure, the Hiriarts discovered remnants of past ownership, including paintings and statues of Napoleon, as well as other peculiar items such as an Arabian-style table with ivory inlays, a camel saddle repurposed as a bench, and weapons like sabers and a whip equipped with a deadly blade. One intriguing tale involves a steel door believed to have belonged to the home of Juan Manuel de Rosas, a prominent figure in Argentine history. One notable anecdote from the Hiriart family recounts an incident that occurred on December 8, the day they first moved into the estancia. They had begun cleaning essential areas of the house, including the kitchen, when they uncovered a dark lump protruding from a wall. Upon removing it, they placed it beneath the water tap, revealing what would become a local legend. The story suggests that this object, though seemingly mundane, carried historical weight tied to the property’s storied past. The estancia continues to stand as a testament to Argentina’s rural heritage, blending architectural history with personal narratives. With its rich legacy and unique features, Los Aromos represents not just a place, but a living piece of the nation’s past. As it comes up for sale, it offers a rare opportunity to own a fragment of Argentina’s agrarian and cultural history.