Blog Archives
5 Emblematic City Landmarks
Obelisco: This Buenos Aires icon at the center of the emblematic 9 de Julio avenue in the heart of the city is a well-known city landmark. It has been standing since 1936 and was built to celebrate the foundation of the city. The obelisk has since functioned as a meeting point to celebrate world-cup football wins, and to stage shows such as Julio Bocca’s last dance and a Placido Domingo live concert, amongst others. It is also often decorated to commemorate many occasions, such as the Bicentennial or the memorable 2005 world Aids day – in which it was covered by a giant condom!

(Photo by slaff)
Torre Monumental: The Palladian-style tower in front of Retiro train station was a gift to the city from the British to commemorate the centennial of the May Revolution. Initially, its name was Torre de los Ingleses, but the name was changed after the Falklands/Malvinas war. Still, it stands as one of the city’s signature monuments, displaying the Irish shamrock, the Welsh dragon, the Scottish thistle and the English rose.

(Photo by morrissey)
Monumento de los Españoles: This stunning monument on Sarmiento and Libertador avenues in Palermo was donated in 1910 by the local Spanish community to commemorate the May revolution, although due to many complications in its construction it wasn’t inaugurated until 1927. The bronze and marble monument, which is also called “La Magna Carta y las Cuatro Regiones Argentinas,” consists of a representation of the Pampas, the Andes, Chaco and Rio de La Plata regions on its base, and at the top of the monument, a statue of the Republic.

(Photo by InnerCore)
Puente de la Mujer: This beautiful modern bridge in Puerto Madero was designed by Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava and was inspired by tango dancers. Its unique and elegant design, which includes a complex rotational system to allow boats through, has made it famous worldwide.

(Photo by Christian Haugen)
Floralis Generica: Argentine architect Eduardo Catalano is responsible for the impressive steel and aluminum flower the heart of Recoleta. The sculpture, which closes its metal petals at night and reopens with the sunlight, is symbolic for rebirth and hope.

(Photo by matt.hintsa)
This Week in Buenos Aires
Monday

(Photo by Carola)
Don’t miss the Photography Biennial being held at the Centro Cultural Borges, right next to Galerias Pacifico. More than 220 artists from 39 countries are exhibiting their works that will be auctioned on the 14th of February at the MALBA. All the auctions proceeds are to go to Save the Children and Fleni Foundation. Opening hours: Mon-Sat 10am-9pm, Sun midday-9pm. Viamonte 525, downtown. 5555 5358/9. info@ccborges.org.ar.
In the evening don’t miss out on La Bomba del Tiempo, a percussion orchestra that has become one of the local absolute musts. Centro Cultural Konex, Sarmiento 3131, Abasto, 4864-3200.
Tuesday

(Photo by deglispiriti)
The Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes (MNBA) is showcasing a collection of Italian art from 1860-1945 until the 19th of February. Opening hours Tue-Fri 12.30pm-8.30pm and Sat-Sun from 9.30am-8.30pm. Av. Del Libertador 1473, Recoleta.
If you’re looking for a laugh don’t miss the Grin Go! Stand Up comedy Show starting at 9pm at the Absinth Resto Bar. Bartolomé Mitre 1695, Downtown. 4371-6486. Be sure to make a reservation by emailing gringo@comicosdepie.com.ar.
Wednesday

(Photo by blmurch)
La Manzana de las Luces is a block of historical buildings that housed the first public school, university and library. On this block is the San Ignacio church, the oldest in Buenos Aires. A mysterious set of tunnels, dating back to the 1700’s is another of this landmarks attractions that can be toured starting 3pm. Perú 272, San Telmo.
In the evening head to the Abasto neighborhood for a taste of tango presented by the Orquesta Típica Fernandez Fierro at the Club Atletico Fernández Fierro starting at 10.30pm. Sánchez de Bustamante 764, Abasto. caff@fernandezfierro.com.
Thursday

(Photo by Carlos Novillo Martin. Rus)
Go on the San Telmo Art Walk, offered by Juanele every Tuesday and Thursday at 3pm and discover the who is who and what is what of the neighborhood’s art-ridden streets. The three-hour walk includes a tour of both the street art and galleries. More information here.
For a unique evening, book your place at Fierro Hotel’s Thursday wine tasting and sample some great Argentine wines, chosen by the president of the Argentine Sommelier Association Andres Rosberg and in-house Sommelier Martin Bruno. Tastings cost 25 USD per person and are limited to 7 people. Soler 5862, Palermo. 3220-6800.
Pop sensation Selena Gomez will be playing live at Estadio GEBA in the evening. Tickets here.
Friday

(photo by Brian Negin)
Start the week by visiting the Evita Museum to find out more about this emblematic political figure. Guided tours in English can be booked in advance and last about an hour. Tue-Sun 11am-7pm. Lafinur 2988. 4807-0306.
Later on stop by one of these recommended bars for Happy hour! Or head to the Luna Park to watch multilingual African reggae singer Alpha Blondie perform. Tickets here.
Saturday and Sunday

(Photo by scrambldmeggs)
Take a day trip to the San Isidro neighborhood in the outskirts of the city and visit Quinta Los Ombues, one of the oldest homestead in the city where a small historical museum is displayed overlooking a beautiful viewpoint of San Isidro. Close by is the San Isidro cathedral and an artisans fair in a shaded park. Also in San Isidro is the Casa de Victoria OCampo well worth visiting and having some tea with scones in.
The Summer Blues Festival will be taking place at La Trastienda this year with a focus on the harmonica. Tickets here.
Buenos Aires Parks
Despite being a bustling city, Buenos Aires is surrounded by green and its many stunning parks, with important architectural landmarks, are popular amongst locals and tourists alike. Below we prepared a list of some of the most important parks in Buenos Aires.
Plaza San Martin: Retiro is one of the city’s focal points and the gorgeous Plaza San Martín clearly reminds any visitor or passer by of the importance of this neighborhood. The stately park, in front of the Torre Monumental, holds the Jose de San Martin monument and the Monumeno a los Caidos de Malvinas. It is also chock full of lush Ombu, Linden and Floss Silk trees, and is surrounded by important buildings with stunning architecture.

(Photo by sapiamaia)
Parque 3 de Feberero: The lush extensive parks that were inaugurated in 1852 by caudillo Juan Manuel de Rosas are a city emblem. Between Av. Libertador and Lugones, and extending from Av. Casares in Palermo to La Pampa in Belgrano, this group of parks is composed of 25 hectares made up of 15 public parks and 21 private sport clubs. Some of the highlights for those getting to know the city include the “Rosedal”, an extensive rose garden with an Andalusian patio and a small lake to pedal boat in, the Sivori museum of art, the planetarium and the Japanese gardens which host a variety of activities related to Japanese culture.

(Photo by Luis Araujo)
Jardín Botanico: This mysterious and charming botanical garden has over 500 plant species amongst which a large cat community lives. There are also some lovely statues, a botanical museum, and a library. This is a great place to walk though or sit in to read a Borges short story!

(Photo by wallygrom)
Plaza Francia and surrounding parks: many beautiful extensive parks surround Recoleta. The most known is Plaza Francia, next to the Cemetery, and where the artisans fair is put on weekends. Also in the area is Plaza Naciones Unidas where the impressive Floralis Generica is located, and Plaza Las Heras, amongst others bordering Av. Libertador and Figueroa Alcorta.

(Photo by guillermopaladino)
Parque Lezama: This famous park in the heart of San Telmo is easily recognized by the bright colored cupolas of the Russian Orthodox Church, which overlooks the parks tipa and jacaranda trees. Also surrounding the park is the historic Bar Britanico. The Pedro de Mendoza monument, a gazebo, a pergola and a sculpture garden complete the charm of this lovely green space.

(Photo by Matias Garabedian)
Parque Centenario: In the Caballito neighborhood, Parque Centenario is a popular meeting point for afternoon mates and live evening concerts at the parks amphitheatre. Also in the park are a swan lake and the Fountain of the Irupé Flower, sculpted by renowned sculptor Luis Perlotti. Surrounding the park is the Museum of Natural Sciences and an Astronomy observatory.

(Photo by PezMico)
The Buenos Aires Zoo

(Photo by Diego3336)
The Buenos Aires Zoo is a special place in the city, not only because it displays a large variety of exotic animals, but also because it is an important investigation center and has beautiful architecture that dates back to the late 1800´s.
Eduardo Holmberg was an Argentine naturalist, author and an important figure for the country’s development of natural sciences. As the first director of the yet unbuilt zoo he put together a commission integrated by Florentino Ameghino, Carlos Berg and Lynch Ariibalzaga (3 renown zoologists and scientists) to design the layout. He also decided to have each of he pavilions designed in the architectural style of the country of origin of the animals that would go in them, importing European, African and Asian species, which were exhibited next to many local animals. The purpose of the zoo was recreational in its origin but Holmberg encouraged scientific investigation first and foremost.
Now a days the Zoo maintains its scientific and ecologic focus and participates in investigations, conservation and educational projects and in many international conservation and wildlife foundations. Additionally it welcomes local and international visitors who can enjoy the majestic beauty of the animals, and admire the stately premises.
Tours in English are available upon request and cover the history of the zoo, characteristics of urban zoos and more about the local flora and fauna. Reservations can be made at 4011 -9999 or visitasguiadas@zoobuenosaires.com.ar.
Nighttime visitations to the zoo are also offered on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays and must be booked in advance at zoodenoche@zoobuenosaires.com.ar.
Open: Tue-Sun 10am-6.30pm (Box office open until 5.30pm)
Av. Las Heras y Av. Sarmiento
This Week in Buenos Aires
Monday

(Photo by jduvall71)
One of the architectural landmarks of the city is the famous Palacio Barolo. Construction of this regal building full of references to poet Dante Alighieri began in 1919 for what was to be the tallest structure in Latin America. Guided tours are available Mondays and Thursdays from 4pm to 7pm and evening guided tours on Mondays and Wednesdays at 8pm and Thursdays at 8.30pm includes tasting of an awarded wine and a national delicacy. Av de Mayo 1370 9° P. Esc. 249/52. Tel/Fax: (54-11) 4381-1885. info@palaciobarolotours.com.ar
In the evening don’t miss out on La Bomba del Tiempo, a percussion orchestra that has become one of the local absolute musts. Centro Cultural Konex Sarmiento 3131, Abasto. 4864-3200
For some great post dancing pizza, head to nearby Los Cocos and order a fugazetta pizza, an onion and mozzarella local specialty. Córdoba, Av. 3303, Almagro. 4963-0457.
Tuesday

(Photo by kevin dooley)
Lots of Mexican themed activities will be held in Buenos Aires throughout the summer. Amongst them is the exhibit on Mexican deities and rituals “Dioses, ritos y oficios” being held at Fundación Proa in La Boca. Av. Pedro de Mendoza 1929, La Boca. 4104-1000. info@proa.org
If you’re looking for a laugh don’t miss the Grin Go! Stand Up comedy Show starting at 9pm at the Absinth Resto Bar. Bartolomé Mitre 1695, Downtown. 4371-6486. Be sure to make a reservation by emailing gringo@comicosdepie.com.ar.
Wednesday

(Photo by Basilievich)
Whilst visiting the Casa Rosada (govt. Headquarters) area, don’t forget to stop by the Casa del Bicentenario where a special exhibit on Argentine folk singer Mercedes Sosa is being displayed. Riobamba 985, downtown. 4813-0301
Later on head to the Centro Cultural Konex for a unique experience of the senses at the Dialogo en la Oscuridad exhibit in which the audience is guided through a series of recreated situations, such as shopping or traveling in a boat, in total darkness. You can also stay for the after office and wine tasting in the dark afterwards. Opening hours from 5pm-10pm. Sarmiento 3131, Abasto. 4864-3200.
Thursday

(Photo by reflectification)
Purchase an online PDF of Buenos Aires Domes (U.S $3.99) from Endless Mile and go on a dome hunt to discover these local architectural landmarks and the city while you’re at it!
Book your place for the Fierro Hotel’s Thursday wine tasting and sample some great Argentine wines, chosen by the president of the Argentine Sommelier Association Andres Rosberg and in-house Sommelier Martin Bruno. Tastings cost 25 USD per person and are limited to 7 people. Soler 5862, Palermo. 3220-6800.
Friday

(Photo by Chile con Karine)
Take a free tour of Buenos Aires with Jonathan, an Englishman in love with the city. Tours start every day at 11am at the center of Plaza Italia by the Garibaldi Horse monument and cover the areas of Almagro, Congress and the Plaza de Mayo using local transport to get around. More information here.
Later on don’t miss Fierro´s new happy hour special from 6pm-8pm where unique Argentine inspired cocktails (2 x 35pesos) and tapas (10 pesos) will be served in the restaurant and hotel garden. Soler 5862, Palermo. 3220-6800.
In the evening head to La Catedral in the Almagro area for a fun informal tango lesson starting at 9pm. Sarmiento 4006, doorbell 5, Almagro. 4342-4794.
Saturday and Sunday

(Photo by Gobierno de la Ciudad de Buenos Aires)
Don’t miss brunch at one of these recommended venues!
Head to the stunning new Faena Arts Center in Puerto Madero, which is showcasing the centers opening Ernesto Neto exhibit, curated by the Tate Modern’s Jessica Morgan. Aimé Paine 1169, Puerto Madero. 4010 9233.
Feria de Mataderos- Coordinate transport with the hotel and check out some of the popular local traditions at the Feria de Mataderos. Every Sunday at Lisandro de la Torre Avenue.
On Sunday Mayer Hawthorne will be presenting his combination of retro soul sounds with rap on his How Do You Do tour at La Trastienda. Tickets here.
This Week in Buenos Aires
Monday

(Photo by Patricia Turo)
If you’re in the Recoleta area, visiting the cemetery or the MALBA, stop by the Centro Cultural Recoleta where x200mas, an art exhibit of predictions for the next 200 years, is being showcased. Junin 1930, Recoleta. 4803-1040
In the evening head downtown to the Centro Cultural Borges for a tango show starting at 8pm. Tickets 70 pesos. Viamonte 525, Downtown. 5555 5358
Tuesday

(Photo by robert ostmann)
Anyone who has been on the graffitimundo, or Juanele AR tours has had the chance to see that the local urban art is booming. Don’t miss the last days of Palermo art gallery Hollywood in Cambodia’s special sale of some of the best local stencils, graffitis, and illustrations by some of the most active urban artists of the Buenos Aires scene. Bellow the gallery is the Post Street Bar, which is decorated with graffiti and stencils and is a good place for a quick beer. Gallery opens from 5pm-9pm. Sale from 8pm-9pm. Thames 1885 1st floor. hollywoodincambiodia@gmail.com.
For a great meal in the area, just four blocks away try Las Pizarras. Thames 2296, Palermo. 4775-0625
Wednesday

(Photo by Diego3336)
Take a free tour of Buenos Aires with Jonathan, an Englishman in love with the city. Tours start every day at 11am at the center of Plaza Italia by the Garibaldi Horse monument and cover the areas of Almagro, Congress and the Plaza de Mayo using local transport to get around. More information here.
Later on head to Doppelganger Bar in San Telmo for some of the city’s best drinks and atmosphere. Juan de Garay 500, San Telmo. 4300 0201
Thursday

(Photo by derekGavey)
Head to the Carlos Gardel Museum to see the special exhibit on Tita Merello, a famous Argentine actress and singer. Jean Jaures 735, Abasto. 4964-2015
Book your place for the Fierro Hotel’s Thursday wine tasting and sample some great Argentine wines, chosen by the president of the Argentine Sommelier Association Andres Rosberg and in-house Sommelier Martin Bruno. Tastings cost 25 USD per person and are limited to 7 people. Soler 5862, Palermo. 3220-6800.
Friday

(Photo by Lu Monte)
Every Friday the historical San Francisco Basilica in the Monserrat neighborhood hosts an arts fair where paintings, sculptures and photography can be bought. Adolfo Alsina 380, Monserrat.
In the evening head to Centro Cultural Konex for the Plop party featuring theatrics, quirky entertainment and a lot of dancing! Sarmiento 3131, Almagro. 864-3200
Saturday and Sunday

(Photo by scrambldmeggs)
Take a day trip to the San Isidro neighborhood in the outskirts of the city and visit Quinta Los Ombues, one of the oldest homestead in the city where a small historical museum is displayed overlooking a beautiful viewpoint of San Isidro. Close by is the San Isidro cathedral and an artisans fair in a shaded park. Also in San Isidro is the Casa de Victoria OCampo well worth visiting and worth stopping in for some tea with scones.
This Week in Buenos Aires
Monday

(Photo by J)
One of the architectural landmarks of the city is the famous Palacio Barolo. Construction of this regal building full of references to poet Dante Alighieri began in 1919 for what was to be the tallest structure in Latin America. Guided tours are available Mondays and Thursdays from 4pm to 7pm and evening guided tours on Mondays and Wednesdays at 8pm and Thursdays at 8.30pm includes tasting of an awarded wine and a national delicacy.
In the evening the talented flamenco dancer, Rafaela Carrasco, will be putting on a show at Parque Centenario at 8pm.
Av de Mayo 1370 9° P. Esc. 249/52
Tel/Fax: (54-11) 4381-1885
info@palaciobarolotours.com.ar
Parque Centenario
Avenida Díaz Vélez 5463
4982 4252
Tuesday

(Photo by Quimbaya)
An exhibition on the storefront windows of the historic La Estrella pharmacy is being displayed at the Museo de la Ciudad.
In the evening head to traditional cafe Los 36 Billares for a live tango show with dancing staring at 9pm.
Defensa 223, San Telmo
4331-9855
Open: Mon-Fri 11am-7pm, Sat-Sun 10am-8pm
Av. De Mayo 1265, Downtown
4381-5696
Wednesday

(Photo by Valerie Everett)
A special exhibit of clothing and accessories related to weddings and family from 1870-1915 is being showcased at the Museo de Arte Hispano Americano Isaac Fernandez Blanco.
In the evening head to 878 bar in Palermo where renowned cocktail artist Tato Giovannoni will be preparing drinks thought the week.
Museo de Arte Hispano Americano
Suipacha 1422, Downtown
4327- 0228
Thames 878, Palermo
4773-1098
Thursday

(Photo by blmurch)
Explore the Tres de Febrero parks in Palermo. Between Av. Libertador and Lugones, and extending from Av. Casares in Palermo to La Pampa in Belgrano, this group of parks is composed of 25ha made up of 15 public parks and 21 private sport clubs and includes the “Rosedal”, an extensive rose garden, the Sivory Museum, the planetarium and the Japanese gardens.
Later on Book your place for the Fierro Hotel’s Thursday wine tasting and sample some great Argentine wines, chosen by the president of the Argentine sommelier association Andres Rosberg and in-house Sommelier Martin Bruno. Tastings cost 25 USD per person and are limited to 7 people.
Soler 5862, Palermo
3220-6800
Friday

(Photo by capitu)
Experiment with your senses at the Centro Cultural Konex where the temporary exhibit “Dialogo en la Oscuridad” will guide you through a series of recreated situations, such as shopping or traveling in a boat, in total darkness. The exhibit is held from 3pm-5.30pm
Afterwards stop for 5 o’clock tea at the stunning Las Violetas teahouse, which is just a few blocks away.
Also in the area is La Catedral where you can take an informal tango lesson at 7.30pm or at 9pm.
Sarmiento 3131, Abasto.
4864-3200
Av. Rivadavia 3899, Abasto.
4958-7387
Sarmiento 4006, doorbell 5, Almagro
Telephone: 4342-4794
Saturday and Sunday

(Photo by CateIncBA)
Check out one of the documentaries at DocBsAs, the annual documentary festival. Program available here.
Sunday won’t offer much in terms of activities as it is Election Day, so it is a good chance to walk around the city to see architectural landmarks such as the Puente de la Mujer and the Cavannagh building. Restaurants will be open although alcohol will not be served on Saturday evening or Sunday.







