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The heart of the Argentina lies within its capital, Buenos Aires. Known as the “Paris of South America” boasting unrivalled café culture, and wondrous nightlife so read on and discover the Best of Buenos Aires.
Plaza de Mayo is the oldest public square in Buenos Aires. Known as a political hub, financial and administrative centre. Throughout history also known as a symbol of disaster, rebellion and hope for the people of Buenos Aires. The name “Plaza de Mayo” came from the 1810 May Revolution marking the beginning of South American Independence from Spain. The plaza took form in 1884 when the colonnade separating the Plaza de la Victoria and the Plaza del Fuerte was demolished. The plazas origins goes back to the citys foundation in 1580. The square is famous for the speeches of, Eva Perón, May revolution and the Mothers of the Plaza de Mayo (who have been protesting since 1977 after the disappearance of their children during the military dictatorship). The women still march every Thursday. The square offer notable buildings to visit including the Cabildo, the Metropolitan Cathedral and the National Bank.
The Best of Buenos Aires certainly includes MALBA. This is The Latin American Art Museum of Buenos Aires which is a must see for any museum lover. Founded in 2001 by Eduardo Constantini, MALBA has devoted itself to the preservation, propagation, and integration of modern and contemporary Latin American art worldwide. The museum contains a small collection of permanent artworks created by Argentinean and Latin American artists, filling only part of the museum’s second floor, with the rest of the museum holding ongoing temporary exhibitions and acquisitions. As a result, there is always something new and exciting to witness in MALBA.
San Telmo is the oldest district of Buenos Aires and there you can find cobbled streets, colonial architecture and shady plazas. The most popular attraction is the Sunday “Feria” (market). So you will see every Sunday, locals flock to Calle Defensa and Plaza Dorrego where they visit the many stalls selling antiques, hand-made crafts and souvenirs. Whilst in San Telmo, be sure to visit the Museo Histórico Nacional, Argentina’s National History Museum. The museum is in Parque Lezama, a gorgeous colonial mansion boasting intricate arches and covered walkways set within a picturesque San Telmo park. The museum’s main focus is the country’s independence revolution of May 1810, however, it also covers the history of the country before the arrival of the European colonists.
Established in 1822, the La Recoleta Cemetery is a city within itself. Complete with paved streets, lined with towering mausoleums, statues and row upon row of tombs. A cemetery doesn’t sound like a tourist destination, however this one is the exception. The cemetery’s architecture embodies neo-classical, baroque and art deco styles and with over 4500 tombs there is so much to explore. The cemetery is located in Recoleta which is a wealthy region of Buenos Aires. Consequently, it is no surprise that it is the resting place of many notable political figures and elites. La Recoleta Cemetery is the resting place of Eva Perón who is buried over 5 feet underground in order to protect her remains. The tomb is underwhelming compared to most, yet it is the most visited tomb in the cemetery. Every day the local Argentines place fresh flowers at her tomb.
In Spanish, “Mataderos” means slaughterhouses; the neighbourhood was once home to the region’s largest livestock market and meat processing plants. Now, it is a residential suburb. Every Sunday the fair takes place from 11am to 8pm. Market vendors offer a colourful array of crafts and food whilst gauchos (cowboys) wander effortlessly on their horses. See tango dancers light up the street with their elaborate costumes and traditional dances. The fair allows you to experience Argentinian heritage and culture through traditional food, dance and ancient gaucho contests. This event is a “must do” and is suitable for all ages, showcasing more of the best of Buenos Aires.
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