About Us
Discover the history of El Carmen de Rojas
Since 1837, El Carmen de Rojas has witnessed the history of Argentina. Learn how this place has become a refuge of tranquility and tradition.
A bit of history
The name "El Carmen de Rojas" dates back to 1837.
The first owner of its lands was Juan Evangelista Cano Castro, who obtained large tracts of land through enfiteusis, which he surveyed between 1826 and 1838. In 1839, he received the deed for 20,978 hectares. Juan was married to Carmen Díaz Vélez, with whom he had several children. In 1866, Carmen requested the survey of the lands inherited by their youngest daughter, Susana Cano, the natural daughter of Marciano Cano, who recognized her in his will, making her a beneficiary of his estate. Susana inherited a portion of 5,408 hectares, which included several outposts, among them, "El Carmen."
The main house underwent three construction phases: the oldest part dates back to 1850, was expanded in 1870, and renovated in 1910 to its current state. In 1915, brothers Otto Eduardo and Federico Otto Bemberg acquired the estate and created the "Colonia El Carmen."
Later, it was expropriated by the Banco de la Nación Argentina on September 17, 1948 (by decree No. 27,842), dividing its more than 5,000 hectares.
(We thank researcher Marcelo E. Álvarez Herrera for providing this information.)
My personal story
My name is Marian Solveyra, and I inherited the farm from my mother, Randi Rostad, who was Norwegian.
I lived here until I was five years old, when we moved to Buenos Aires so I could attend an English school. I hated leaving the countryside for an apartment in Belgrano. I always wanted to return. I studied at Northlands School in Olivos. However, thanks to my father, Guillermo Solveyra, who had a racehorse stud farm here – which operated until 1998 – I returned by train every weekend.
I am a landscape architect and English teacher, and I want to share with you the "sad part" of what happened to my mother 20 years ago. My mother was settled on the farm when she was tragically and unexpectedly murdered under circumstances that remain unclear to this day. I was pregnant with Isabella at the time, and despite the pain, I took over the estate. My mother was already separated from my father, Solveyra. Since then, as the only child and heir to the farm, I have leased the productive part. Additionally, since January 2021, I decided to open the doors to welcome guests.
I am Olivia
My name is Olivia Messere, I am Marian's daughter, and I inherited my mother's love for the countryside.
I study at the agricultural technical school in Hunter, and my plan is to study Production Technology. But maybe I'll dedicate myself to horses. I love it and do it daily. Normally, when there are patriotic celebrations or parades in neighboring towns, I am invited to participate with one of the horses from El Carmen. Sometimes I go alone with a horse, but usually, I invite a friend.
We moved permanently to the farm four years ago when my sister went to study in Rosario. Since then, we have been putting in the effort day by day to improve every corner of this almost bicentennial farm. I am in charge of collecting and selling eggs in 30-unit trays in Rojas. I have had a pig since my first year at school, and I invite you to meet her because she is very tame. I am also the one who organizes horseback rides and teaches guests how to ride for a while if they don't know how.
A glimpse into our history
A note that is Argentine history
“Long live the Argentine Confederation! Death to the savage Unitarians! I certify having sold to Don Luis Hugues...” This is how the note for the sale of hides begins, issued between 1831 and 1852, when the heading was used as part of the mandatory divisa punzó. The note was found in the main house.
A symbol: the 1962 Ford F100
A vehicle lovingly preserved through the decades is a symbol of the farm. It never lets you down, is as strong as an oak, and is ready for any task. It has been in service for many decades, and we still use it around the area and for rides with our distinguished guests.
Rural traditions
Marian and Oli are involved in every detail of hospitality. The gaucho saddle is the traditional Argentine mount and usually includes: sweat pad, apron, and saddle pad, cinch, stirrup leathers with buckles, and a rawhide girth.
Corners with history
The walls of the original house are made of adobe and are approximately 50 cm thick, with ceilings over 6 meters high. These conditions provide excellent thermal insulation. In summer, simply by closing the doors and windows, the house stays cool.