Our property used to house a restaurant called “El Viejo Vizcacha”. When we aquired the house, we decided that it was to become a holiday home instead of a restaurant. But since everyone in the area knew which house it was if you said “La Vizcacha”, the name stuck with us.
But What is “El Viejo Vizcacha” ?
El Viejo Vizcacha is a memorable character from Martín Fierro, the famous Argentine epic poem written by José Hernández. Vizcacha is portrayed as a cunning, somewhat unscrupulous old man who lives alone in the countryside. He offers Martín Fierro various pieces of advice, often rooted in pragmatism and self-interest rather than moral integrity. His guidance reflects a survivalist attitude, emphasizing how to navigate life by bending the rules, which contrasts with Fierro’s more principled but rebellious stance against injustice.
As for why the restaurant might have been named “El Viejo Vizcacha,” it could be a nod to Argentine culture and literature, as Martín Fierro is a cornerstone of national identity. The name might evoke a rustic, traditional ambiance, suggesting a place where local wisdom and hearty, authentic Argentine cuisine are shared—much like the old Vizcacha sharing his “worldly wisdom.” It could also imply a spot with a bit of character and charm, maybe even a place where stories are exchanged over a good meal.
If you visit us, we sincerely hope that you will enjoy the sourroundings a bit more now that you know some history of this house, that is one of the oldest houses in the area, built sometime in the mid 1890’s.
Ready for some relax in a historic setting? www.airbnb.com/h/Lavizcacha