It’s Friday and it can mean only one thing… it’s Eva Day! Mrs Y has always, always, ALWAYS harboured a desire to see the tomb of Eva Peron and that balcony! Breakfast was taken earlier than usual and we were soon out on the streets heading towards Recoleta Cemetery fully expecting it to be rammed with tourists. Arriving at around 11:00, we pretty much walked straight in after purchasing our ticket, a ticket that is more expensive for tourists. For the next hour we shared the cemetery with no more than a couple of dozen people. Heading straight for Eva’s family tomb, expecting it to be the busiest, we we surprised to find only two other couples there! Attempting to stay out of the scorching sunshine, we zigzagged around the cemetery enjoying the array of different mausoleums; we were more intrigued by the craftsmanship than the occupants and any historical importance they might have. On leaving, we noticed several tour buses arriving, and felt lucky we’d missed the rush.
Pausing for a quick coffee and reflection we headed across the city to Plaza de Mayo, stopping on route in the Anglican Cathedral, planning only a flying visit. As Christians, and as it was Good Friday, we always try to seek out somewhere for some reflection and prayer. The Catedral Anglicana San Juan de Baptiste gave us that moment in spades! What was to be only a few minutes stay was extended when we joined a group of parishioners praying at paintings representing each of the twelve stations of the cross, charmed by the prayer and rituals that we saw.
Just a short step across the street in to Plaza de Mayo, we finally stood before the Casa Rosada and THAT balcony! Mrs Y was moved to finally be standing in front of the balcony made famous by Eva and where her and Juan would regularly address their people, and of course where Madonna sang that song too. Also in that plaza is a monument of painted stones and rocks to the many people that had lost their lives to COVID and also camped out in a huge makeshift tent are indigenous people protesting that they are not being recognised by the government. The plaza is also the focal point for a silent protest by the Mothers of the Plaza de Mayo who are seeking recognition for the 30,000 disappeared people during what was known as the Dirty War. The physical presence of the Mothers are no longer on the plaza, but a monument, painted slogans, posters and graffitied headscarves remain.
Great food this evening, being lucky to grab an early table at Mr Ho’s, a Korean restaurant were we both enjoyed a wonderful Bibimbap and beer. So good to get some fresh cooked grub!
mrandmrsyoung 