Juan de Garay Archaeological and Ethnographic Museum
Santa Fe
The Juan de Garay Archaeological and Ethnographic Museum, located in Santa Fe, Argentina, is dedicated to the research, preservation, and exhibition of archaeological and ethnographic materials from the Hispanic-indigenous period, colonial order, and native peoples. Situated in the Plaza de las Tres Culturas near the Convent of San Francisco, the museum occupies a neocolonial style building harmonizing with surrounding historic structures. Its collections feature artifacts from the ruins of Santa Fe la Vieja and other provincial archaeological sites, including objects from hunter-gatherer, fishing, and horticultural societies that inhabited the Paraná river plains over 2000 years ago. The ethnographic section presents material and written testimonies of indigenous groups such as the GuaycurĂş (Tobas and MocovĂes), WichĂ, and GuaranĂ, spanning from the 16th to the 21st century. The museum also includes a specialized library and a conference hall, emphasizing its role in ongoing cultural research and education. It honors Dr. AgustĂn Zapata Gollán, a key figure in its foundation and development.
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Tip: Visitors are advised to visit during weekdays for a quieter experience and to check the museum's official website or contact them by phone for current opening hours and special events. Tickets may offer discounts for students and seniors. Booking in advance is recommended for guided tours or group visits to ensure availability.
Interesting facts
- •The museum building was constructed using bricks from the ruins of the historic Santa Fe la Vieja church.
- •The institution manages both the museum and the Santa Fe La Vieja Archaeological Park, a National Historic Monument since 1957.
- •The museum's collections include artifacts from indigenous groups such as the GuaycurĂş, WichĂ, and GuaranĂ, spanning several centuries.
- •Dr. AgustĂn Zapata Gollán, a prominent 20th-century cultural figure in Santa Fe, was instrumental in founding and directing the museum and related archaeological projects.
History
The museum was established following the creation of the Department of Ethnographic and Colonial Studies on July 23, 1940, under the leadership of Dr.
AgustĂn Zapata Gollán.
It officially opened as the Museo Etnográfico y Colonial in 1941 and was named after Juan de Garay, the city's founder, in 1951.
Excavations led by Zapata Gollán at the ruins of Santa Fe la Vieja began in 1949, culminating in the creation of the Santa Fe La Vieja Archaeological Park, declared a National Historic Monument in 1957.
The museum originally operated in various locations before moving to its current neocolonial building inaugurated in 1950, constructed with bricks from the ruins of Santa Fe la Vieja.
Following Zapata Gollán's death in 1986, leadership transitioned to Dr.
Francisco MagĂn Ferrer and later to architect Luis MarĂa Calvo, who continues to direct the institution.
Place Guide
Exhibition Hall
The main public area displaying archaeological and ethnographic artifacts uncovered in Santa Fe la Vieja and other provincial sites, illustrating the region's indigenous and colonial history.
Conference Hall
A dedicated space for lectures, seminars, and cultural events related to the museum's research and exhibitions.
Dr. AgustĂn Zapata Gollán Specialized Library
A specialized library honoring the museum's key founder, containing extensive resources on ethnography, archaeology, and colonial history.
Contact
Phone: 0342 457-3550
