Museo Evita tells the story of how a poor, working-class girl rose to be one of the most powerful women in Argentina. Dresses, documents, videos, personal items and photographs reveal Eva Duarte’s journey from her childhood in rural Argentina to her life as the First Lady. She was the second wife of the Argentine President Juan Domingo Perón and was affectionately called Evita.
The museum opened in 2002 on the 50th anniversary of Evita’s death from cancer and is housed in a 20th-century mansion. The grand property was bought by her charity, the Fundación de Ayuda Social Eva Perón. For a time it was used as a shelter for homeless women and children.
Exhibits are spread across several rooms and organised according to various parts of her life. They include her childhood, acting career, political life and legacy. Some displays have explanatory English texts. Videos are subtitled in Spanish and English.
Study the collection of clothing, including hats, shoes, veils, an outfit from one of her movies and the dress she wore when she met Pope Pius XII during her European tour. Look at photographs taken during her husband’s presidential campaign and watch films of her speeches that helped secure votes. Matchboxes, wine bottles and other merchandise are also covered with images of the powerful couple.
The first lady championed women's suffrage and was instrumental in obtaining the vote for women. Learn about this accomplishment in the room dedicated to the struggle. Observe Evita’s own voting card and a wooden box used to collect votes. The walls of exhibition rooms are covered with selected quotes from her influential speeches.
The museum is open every day except Mondays and New Year’s Day, May 1 and December 24, 25 and 31. Admission charges apply. Guided tours in English are available. The facilities include a gift shop and a restaurant with a patio that’s heated during the winter.
Located in the Palermo district of Buenos Aires, 4 miles (6.5 kilometres) from the city centre, Museo Evita is served by several bus routes and the subway. Find metered parking lots within walking distance of the museum.
