Museo Sitio de Memoria ESMA is a museum at the former Navy School of Mechanics in Buenos Aires, where the last civic-military dictatorship operated a clandestine detention, torture and extermination centre. Its exhibits explain the site’s role and the experiences of people imprisoned there, with information in multiple languages and audio guides. The visit deals with torture, imprisonment and executions, so allow time to take in difficult material. It offers a direct way to learn about this period of Argentina’s history at the place where these abuses took place.
The former Navy School of Mechanics
The museum occupies the former School of Mechanics of the Navy, a site that became one of Argentina’s largest clandestine centres of detention, torture and extermination during the last civic-military dictatorship. Today, it is part of the Space for Memory and for the Promotion and Defense of Human Rights.
The exhibitions explain how the site was used and address the abduction, imprisonment, torture and killing of people during the dictatorship. The material presents a painful history in the place where it happened. Allow yourself time to move through it at your own pace.
Following the exhibitions
Exhibits are available in multiple languages, and audio guides provide additional context as you visit. They can help you follow the history of the site and the experiences of people who were held there. The museum is open Wednesday through Saturday, from 10 am to 5 pm, and is closed on Monday, Tuesday and Sunday. Admission is free.
FAQ
Is admission to Museo Sitio de Memoria ESMA free?
Yes. Admission is free.
When is Museo Sitio de Memoria ESMA open?
It is open Wednesday through Saturday, 10 am to 5 pm. It is closed Monday, Tuesday and Sunday.
Are audio guides available?
Yes. Audio guides are available in multiple languages.
What should I expect from the visit?
The exhibitions cover detention, torture and executions during Argentina’s dictatorship. The material can be emotionally difficult.
