Mafalda, the girl with black hair and big ideas, was born in Buenos Aires, specifically in the San Telmo neighborhood. This iconic character was created by Joaquín “Quino” Lavado in 1964 and has since won hearts around the world with her keen vision of the world and her tenderness.
The Origin in San Telmo
The building located at 371 Chile Street, in San Telmo, was Quino's home and the place where Mafalda first saw the light of day. This corner of cobblestones and bohemian Buenos Aires was the cradle of the little philosopher who questioned everything around her with a mix of innocence and wisdom.
Inspiration in the Neighborhood
San Telmo and its everyday characters were an inexhaustible source of inspiration for Mafalda's strips. From Jorge, the newsstand owner across the street, to Don Manolo's grocery store at 774 Balcarce, Quino captured the essence of Buenos Aires life in his comic strips. Bars filled with adults reading the newspaper and drinking coffee, a custom so typical of Buenos Aires, were also reflected in his stories.
The Mafalda Sculpture
A few meters from the building where Mafalda was born, her famous sculpture is located at the corner of Chile and Defensa. Sitting on a bench, with her green dress and big bow, Mafalda awaits visitors who wish to take a photo with her. The sculpture, made by artist Pablo Irrgang, is crafted from epoxy resin reinforced with fiberglass and is never alone, as she is accompanied by Susanita and Manolito, and there are always people waiting to immortalize the moment.
A Legacy that Transcends Borders
2024 marked an important anniversary: Mafalda celebrated 60 years since her first publication. Despite her last appearance being in 1973, Mafalda continues to question and reflect the critical spirit of generations, transcending borders. This year, she traveled to the UN and fulfilled her wish to be an interpreter to deliver a message of peace, and she also became the first Latin American character to present a statuette at the Emmy Awards.
Mafalda Today
From her bench in San Telmo, Mafalda continues to remind us that dreams have no limits. Quino expressed it better than anyone when he said that Mafalda did not need to be resurrected because she had never stopped being alive. Her legacy continues to inspire people of all ages and nationalities, keeping alive the essence of her message of peace, justice, and reflection.
