Mercedes, Administrative center in Buenos Aires Province, Argentina
Mercedes serves as the administrative capital of its partido in northern Buenos Aires Province, spreading across flat terrain along the Luján River. Streets form a regular grid around Plaza San Martín, where the neo-Gothic basilica and municipal building stand.
A military outpost was founded here in 1745 to guard the frontier against raids, before the settlement relocated to its present site in 1779. The town received its charter in the 19th century and grew into a center for farming and livestock in the pampas.
The town takes its name from Our Lady of Mercedes, whose feast day in September draws residents to the central basilica. Local families keep gaucho traditions alive through horseback events and asado gatherings on the surrounding estancias each weekend.
The main railway station lies east of the center and offers daily connections to the capital, while buses run more frequently. Visitors find lodging and restaurants around the central plaza, where most facilities are within walking distance.
The local brewery has been producing beer using a German recipe since the 1920s and keeps the formula secret to this day. Several old mansions from the early 20th century still line Avenida 39 and display Art Nouveau facades.
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