Buenos Aires, Argentina
Description
Founded in the early 16th century, Buenos Aires was transformed from a colonial port into a cosmopolitan metropolis - the "Paris of the South" - by the cattle boom of the 1880s. As in the American West, boom was followed by bust. But that did not stop Buenos Aires from becoming the city it is today. With its air of haunted grandeur, Buenos Aires is a place of icy intellect and smoldering passion. It is a city where the elegant Colon Theater, one of the world's great opera houses, stands in counterpoint to the working class barrios that gave birth to the tango. Perhaps the city's enigmas and contradictions are best embodied by its two most famous citizens - the reclusive librarian and literary genius Jorge Luis Borges and the showgirl turned First Lady, Evita Peron.
The "Paris of the South" flaunts its European heritage. One of the pleasures of Buenos Aires is simply absorbing its charm and flavor, from Parisian-style confiterias - cafés - to the city's popular tango clubs.
Points of Interest
- Recoleta Cemetery
- Plaza de Mayo/Casa Rosada
- Tango
- Tigre Delta
- La Boca District
- Argentine Estancia
- Colon Theatre
- San Telmo
More about Buenos Aires, Argentina Points of Interest
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Recoleta Cemetery -
This remarkable cemetery located in an exclusive Buenos Aires neighborhood is a virtual city containing 6,400 architecturally diverse mausoleums including the black marble crypt of legendary Eva "Evita" Peron.
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Plaza de Mayo/Casa Rosada -
Since the revolution of May 25, 1810 that led to Argentine independence, this imposing city square and its Casa Rosada presidential mansion has played a pivotal role in the political life of Buenos Aires.
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Tango -
The tango is a sultry dance form that originated in lower-class Buenos Aires during the 1800s. Still popular, it is performed with sensuality and style in tango cafes and ballrooms across the globe.
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Tigre Delta -
The Tigre Delta boasts thousands of islands in a vast network of inlets, channels, rivers and backwaters. It is a popular weekend retreat for Buenos Aires residents.
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La Boca District -
This historic neighborhood at the mouth of the Riachuelo river has a strong European flavor, multi-colored houses, a vibrant street art scene and a number of atmospheric tango cafes.
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Argentine Estancia -
These authentic cattle ranches play a huge part in the local culture and economy. Visitors can enjoy a gaucho barbeque or asado and see a show starring the Argentine cowboy's famed horsemanship.
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Colon Theatre -
This elegant opera house on Buenos Aires´ widest avenue, 9 de Julio Ave, sets the benchmark for fine acoustics and gilded magnificence. It is considered one of the most representative historic monuments in Argentina.
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San Telmo -
The oldest neighborhood in Buenos Aires, San Telmo evokes colonial Argentina with historic buildings and cobblestone lanes. Musicians and tango dancers perform for passersby adding a festive touch.