Controversy in downtown Buenos Aires: plans to build a Mormon temple next to a historic convent that's nearly 300 years old

[MilHojas]

A significant controversy has emerged in downtown Buenos Aires, Argentina, over a proposal to build a Mormon temple next to a historic convent that is nearly 300 years old. The property in question is located at the intersection of Córdoba and Reconquista, a prime area in the city center. The convent beside the proposed site is notable for its rich history: it survived the British invasion of Buenos Aires, served as a war hospital, and housed a group of nuns who were known to have collaborated with the Argentine independence leader Manuel Belgrano.


The plan to construct a Mormon temple on this privileged site has sparked debate and concern among local residents, historians, and preservationists. The main points of contention revolve around the potential impact on the historic convent, which is considered a cultural and architectural treasure due to its age and the significant events it has witnessed. Opponents of the project fear that the new construction could undermine the convent’s historical value, alter the character of the neighborhood, and set a precedent for further development that might threaten other heritage sites in the area.


Supporters of the Mormon temple project argue that the new building could contribute positively to the urban landscape and bring new activity to the district. However, critics emphasize the need to protect the city’s historical legacy and maintain the integrity of sites that are part of Buenos Aires’ identity.


The article highlights the tension between urban development and heritage preservation, a recurring theme in major cities with rich histories. It also underscores the symbolic importance of the convent, not only as an architectural landmark but as a witness to key moments in Argentina’s past, including its role during the British invasion and its connection to national heroes.


In summary, the controversy centers on balancing the interests of religious expansion and urban renewal with the imperative to safeguard historical sites that embody the cultural memory of Buenos Aires.

Polémica en el centro porteño: proyectan construir un templo mormón junto a un convento histórico de casi 300 años

El proyecto para construir un templo junto al convento de Santa Catalina genera preocupación en organizaciones vecinales, que piden convertir el predio en plaza pública y resaltan su valor patrimonial

www-infobae-com.translate.goog

https://www.infobae.com/sociedad/20...nto-a-un-convento-historico-de-casi-300-anos/
Spanish Original Article

 

[VINO]

That is right by the Galeria Pacifico shopping mall isn't it? I wonder why out of all the places to build a Mormon temple they want to there? All the Mormons are in the Northern suburbs I believe.

 

[Cali Baby]

Are there really many Mormons living in BA? I guess I never thought of BA with Mormons. I know the Mormon church has a lot of money in the USA. I'm not sure about Argentina? I actually think the downtown area might have a big revival. My friend is thinking about buying an apartment downtown. He said many developers are converting office space that is unused from COVID to apartment buildings. @earlyretirement do you nkow anything about this? Any good deals out there?

 

[BA Bound]

I had NO idea there were many Mormons in BA. I did see a few of those guys dressed up going around to buildings. I think they have to do 1 year of traveling around the world. I asked ChatGPT if there are a lot of Mormons.

Argentina has a significant Mormon population compared to many countries outside the U.S., though it is still a small minority within the country overall.

🇦🇷 Mormonism in Argentina — Quick Facts:​

• The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church) has been in Argentina since 1925.
• As of 2024, there are approximately 475,000 members in Argentina (per LDS Church records).
• That makes Argentina one of the largest LDS populations in Latin America, behind countries like Brazil and Mexico.
• Argentina has multiple temples, including one in Buenos Aires, and another planned for Salta.
• The church is most active in urban centers like Buenos Aires, Córdoba, Mendoza, Rosario, etc.

📌 Context:​

Despite the relatively large LDS membership for the region, Argentina is still predominantly Roman Catholic (by culture if not by regular practice), and evangelical Christianity has been growing in recent decades.

 

[Good Stuff]

My Partner's family has 3 cousins who are Mormon who live in Tigre/San Fernando. The family does not have much money. But the cousins, who are in their early to mid 20'a are all in serious supportive and wholesome relationships, they study hard, go to university and learned English. That support comes from the church, and they're barely making it Mormon Public School Teacher mother and construction worker father. Not from It's very clear that the church has introduced some upward mobility and vision into opportunity. This is in great contrast to the welfare recieving/peronist side of the family, whose company I also enjoy.

 

[Bingo]

My Partner's family has 3 cousins who are Mormon who live in Tigre/San Fernando. The family does not have much money. But the cousins, who are in their early to mid 20'a are all in serious supportive and wholesome relationships, they study hard, go to university and learned English. That support comes from the church, and they're barely making it Mormon Public School Teacher mother and construction worker father. Not from It's very clear that the church has introduced some upward mobility and vision into opportunity. This is in great contrast to the welfare recieving/peronist side of the family, whose company I also enjoy.

Thanks. I wouldn't have thought there were many but I asked someone and they said the same thing they mostly live up near Tigre. My roommate from college was Moron. Great guy. Devoted family man. He is the only Mormon I knew.