Pasaje de la Defensa (Casa Ezeiza) Buenos Aires
Discover Pasaje de la Defensa, a historic 1876 mansion in San Telmo, now a vibrant passage of artisan shops and cultural spaces.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed browsing
Pasaje de la Defensa (Casa Ezeiza) Buenos Aires
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed browsing
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Pasaje de la Defensa, a historic 1876 mansion in San Telmo, now a vibrant passage of artisan shops and cultural spaces.
"Stylish building. Interesting stores. It needs more renovations to bring its full glory back."
🚶♀️ Explore San Telmo First
Combine your visit with exploring the charming streets of San Telmo before or after.
💰 Pricey but Worth It
Items can be pricey, but appreciate the craftsmanship and history behind them.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Historic Italianate Architecture
Entire Passage
Admire the stunning 1876 Italianate mansion, a former residence now a vibrant commercial gallery.
Artisan Shops & Antiques
Various shops within the passage
Browse unique crafts, antiques, and local artisan goods in a historically rich setting.
Cultural Center Vibes
Inside Pasaje de la Defensa
Experience live music and cultural events in this unique historical space.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
San Telmo's Hidden Gem
Navigating San Telmo's Charm
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Explore San Telmo First
Combine your visit with exploring the charming streets of San Telmo before or after.
💰 Pricey but Worth It
Items can be pricey, but appreciate the craftsmanship and history behind them.
📸 Capture the History
Great spot for photos, but be mindful of other visitors and the historical ambiance.
🕰️ Check Opening Hours
Hours can vary, especially on weekends. Check in advance if possible.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Explore San Telmo First
Combine your visit with exploring the charming streets of San Telmo before or after.
💰 Pricey but Worth It
Items can be pricey, but appreciate the craftsmanship and history behind them.
📸 Capture the History
Great spot for photos, but be mindful of other visitors and the historical ambiance.
🕰️ Check Opening Hours
Hours can vary, especially on weekends. Check in advance if possible.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors appreciate the historic architecture and the unique artisan shops at Pasaje de la Defensa, finding it a charming spot in San Telmo. Some note that prices can be high and that the place could benefit from further renovations, with occasional mentions of it being crowded with 'Instagram people'.
"Nice quiet shops. Kinda pricey but they work hard on their craft so why not"
Mark Hernandez
"Very interesting piece of architecture with quite an interesting history. I am not going to kerp you from researching it yourself, though. 😀
The shops in there are nothing to shout about. It also ventilates this very chique and modern appeal of "alternative culture"."
Nic G.
"Stylish building. Interesting stores. It needs more renovations to bring its full glory back"
Bruno Huer
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Pasaje de la Defensa is located at Defensa 1179 in the San Telmo neighborhood. You can reach it by bus (many lines stop nearby) or by taxi/ride-sharing. It's a short walk from Plaza Dorrego. 
Yes, numerous bus lines serve the San Telmo area, making it easily accessible via public transport. Check local transit apps for the best routes from your location.
Wander through the cobblestone streets, visit Plaza Dorrego, and explore the antique shops and street performers that San Telmo is famous for.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Pasaje de la Defensa is generally free. It functions as a commercial passage and cultural center.
Opening hours can vary, but it's typically open during business hours on weekdays and weekends. It's advisable to check closer to your visit date, especially for specific shop hours.
While the passage itself is free to enter, specific events or performances at the cultural center within Pasaje de la Defensa might have separate admission fees.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You'll find a variety of artisan shops selling crafts, antiques, vintage clothing, and unique souvenirs. It's a great place to find one-of-a-kind items.
Absolutely! The historic architecture and unique shops make it a very photogenic spot. Be respectful of shoppers and artisans when taking pictures.
Built in 1876, it was originally the residence of the Ezeiza family. It later served as a school, an institute, and a tenement house before becoming a commercial passage in the 1980s.
While primarily a shopping passage, there are often cafes or small eateries within or nearby where you can grab a bite.
📸 📸 Photography
Focus on the intricate architectural details, the central courtyards, and the displays within the artisan shops. The overall ambiance is very 'Instagrammable'.
Generally, casual photography is allowed. However, avoid intrusive photography that might disturb shoppers or vendors. Some shops might have specific policies.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
📸 Instagrammers & Photographers
Pro-tip: Visit during weekdays to avoid the weekend crowds and get clearer shots. Be mindful of the space and other visitors while you're snapping photos. The 'alternative culture' vibe also lends itself to interesting street photography.
🛍️ Shoppers Seeking Unique Finds
While some items might be pricier, the opportunity to support local artists and find something truly special is a major draw. It's a place to browse, discover, and perhaps find a hidden gem.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Rich History of Casa Ezeiza
+1Over time, the mansion transitioned through various uses. It served as a primary school, an institute for the deaf, and later as a tenement house, housing multiple immigrant families. This period of its history is a testament to the evolving social landscape of Buenos Aires.
+1In the 1980s, the building was revitalized and transformed into the 'Pasaje de la Defensa,' a commercial and cultural hub. This transformation preserved its historical essence while giving it a new purpose as a space for artisans and cultural expression.
Exploring the Artisan Scene
Many of the vendors are local artisans who pour their passion and skill into their creations. While some reviews mention prices can be on the higher side, the quality and uniqueness of the items often justify the cost. It's an excellent place to find a special souvenir or gift that tells a story.
Beyond tangible goods, the passage itself fosters a sense of community and creativity. Keep an eye out for live music performances or small cultural events that occasionally take place, adding to the vibrant atmosphere.
Social
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