The Third Republic of La Boca: Presidents, Dictators, and a Countess in Buenos Aires' Historic Neighborhood

In the heart of Buenos Aires' La Boca neighborhood, a unique entity thrives: the Third Republic of La Boca. More than just a community, it's a self-declared republic with its own president, ministers, flag, and even an official palace for feasts – the renowned Banchero pizzeria.

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As you can see, this sash has the Boca flag, the River flag, intertwined, with the Italian flag, the La Boca crest, and the flag of Genoa. Here we synthesize everything.

Pablo Abbatángelo, the current president, proudly displays the republic's distinctive presidential sash. "As you can see, this sash has the Boca flag, the River flag, intertwined, with the Italian flag, the La Boca crest, and the flag of Genoa. Here we synthesize everything," he explains. Since November 2022, Abbatángelo has led the republic with a primary mission: "to maintain our traditions and our customs."

This vibrant republic, situated along the Riachuelo, is a testament to the area's rich history as a haven for Genoese immigrants and a hub of port activity. Martín Scotto, president of the La Boca Historic Museum Foundation and the republic's first minister, elaborates on the origins of this playful republican spirit. He notes that the idea of an independent La Boca emerged between 1870 and 1890, stemming from a desire for autonomy from national government interference.

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to maintain our traditions and our customs.

Scotto recounts that a group of Genoese residents sought to manage their own affairs, and some opportunistic individuals attempted to declare La Boca's independence from Argentina. While this bid for autonomy was ultimately short-lived, quashed by figures like Julio Argentino Roca, the spirit of the 'Independent Republic of La Boca' has endured, celebrated through its traditions and the symbolic governance of its modern-day republic.

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A group of Genoese said that the national government cannot interfere in their affairs.