Understand

Once a humble fortress guarding Buenos Aires, Mercedes has evolved into a flourishing provincial town. It played a vital role as an administrative center, housing the governmental offices and the prestigious archdiocese cathedral. Over time, it became a bustling transit depot for the region's agricultural produce, earning its title as the "peach capital of Argentina." For decades, Mercedes was an incredibly popular commuter town, providing a convenient escape from the urban sprawl of Buenos Aires. Today, Mercedes stands as a vibrant and picturesque city in its own right. Its downtown streets are adorned with a charming collection of colonial-style buildings, showcasing intricate ironwork and graceful arched windows. The architectural elegance transports visitors back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries, where a fusion of history and modernity intertwine. Mercedes boasts an efficient urban planning system, with its town laid out on a grid. East-west streets, numbered evenly, guide the flow of traffic, while north-south streets, numbered in odd increments, intersect harmoniously. The organized layout allows for easy navigation and exploration of this thriving town. Despite the decline in train system service, Mercedes continues to attract commuters who prefer the convenience and tranquility of a short drive to and from Buenos Aires. This scenic haven captivates the senses, making it an enchanting destination for residents and visitors alike.

Get in

Mercedes, located approximately 100 km from Buenos Aires, offers various transportation options for those looking to travel to and from the city: - One popular choice among locals and travelers alike is taking a bus from Retiro (Estación Retiro Terminal de Buenos Aires) to Mercedes (Terminal de ómnibus de Mercedes). This direct bus journey takes around 2 hours and costs approximately $8-$10 USD. The buses on this route are comfortable, air-conditioned, and equipped with amenities like comfortable seats and window curtains. Some buses even provide snacks for passengers. - If you prefer to drive, the journey from CABA (Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires) to Mercedes takes about one and a half hours. You can reach Mercedes by taking Rt 7 (the "Acceso Oeste" highway) and then switching to Rt 5 (exit 61). - While there is a commuter train available, locals generally recommend relying on the bus system for public transportation. Buses are faster, more frequent, and more accessible compared to trains. The train ride itself takes approximately 4+ hours and departs from Moreno or Once (downtown near the port) to Moreno station before transferring. With these transportation options, traveling to and from Mercedes becomes convenient and accessible, allowing visitors to explore this charming location with ease.

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

The first most popular food in Argentina is Asado, which is Argentine barbecue. It typically consists of various types of grilled meats, including beef, pork, chicken, and sausages, all slow-cooked over hot coals to achieve a smoky and flavorful taste. The meat is often seasoned with a mixture of herbs called chimichurri, made from parsley, garlic, olive oil, vinegar, and red pepper flakes.

The second most popular food in Argentina is Empanada, a stuffed pastry that can be either savory or sweet. The savory version typically includes a filling of ground meat (such as beef, pork, or chicken), olives, hard-boiled eggs, and spices, all enclosed within a thin, doughy exterior. The empanadas can be baked or fried, depending on the region. Sweet empanadas feature fillings like dulce de leche, sugar, or fruits, and are often enjoyed during breakfast or as a dessert.

The third most popular food in Argentina is Mate, a traditional South American drink made from the dried leaves of the yerba mate plant. It is prepared by filling a gourd (mate) with the dried leaves and twigs, and then pouring hot water over the mixture. The drink is sipped through a metal straw (bombilla) with a filter at the end. Mate can be enjoyed plain or enhanced with additional flavors, such as lemon, mint, or fruit juices. Drinking mate is a social activity, often shared among friends and family members, and is deeply ingrained in Argentine culture.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing