Blog Archives
Buenos Aires Art Museums
(photo by majisabel)
Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes (MNBA): Set in the heart of Recoleta, the National Fine Arts Museum has 10,000 art pieces by renown national and international artists such as Quinquela Martín, Pettorutti, Prilidiano Pueyrredón, Antonio Berni, Goya, Picasso, Rembrandt, Rubens, Renoir, Degas, Chagall and Modigliani amongst many others. Av. Del Libertador 1473, Recoleta. 5288-9900 .
Museum opening hours
Tuesday to Friday: 12.30 – 8.30 p.m.
Saturday and Sunday: 9.30 a.m. – 8.30 p.m.
Monday closed
Museo de Arte Latino Americano de Buenos Aires (MALBA): The MALBA is set in a modern building and showcases an impressive collection of Latin-American art from the twentieth century. The museum, which has become one of the most popular cultural centers in the city, offers a unique collection of sculptures, drawings, paintings, collage, photographs and objects by artists from Central and South America. The museum also hosts film screenings and interesting exhibitions and conferences and has a highly recommendable restaurant. Avenida Figueroa Alcorta 3415, Recoleta. 4808-6500.
Museum opening hours
From Thursday to Monday: 12.00 am to 8.00 pm
Wednesdays: 12.00- 9.00 pm
Museo de Arte Moderno de Buenos Aires (MAMBA): Lovers of modern art are now welcome to visit the recently re-inaugurated MAMBA. The museum, located in the neighborhood of San Telmo, is made up of two exhibition halls with two different collections. “Narrativas Inciertas” is an assembly of pieces by contemporary and up-and-coming local artists. Whilst “El imaginario de Ignacio Pirovano” displays a donated collection which includes both local and international modern art. Av. San Juan 350, San Telmo. 4342-3001/2970.
Museum opening hours
Monday to Friday from 12.00am to 7.00pm
Saturdays and Sundays from 11.00am to 8.00pm.
Museo Nacional de Arte Decorativo (MNAD): The Decorative Art Museum is a palace from the beginning of the 20th century. Designed by French architect René Sergent in 1911 and built with European materials it is a great example of French architecture in Buenos Aires. Its marvelous collection of European and Oriental paintings and sculptures, the great hall and the impressive staircase make this place well worth a visit. Av.del Libertador 1902, Recoleta. 4801-8248
Museum opening hours:
Tuesdays to Sundays from 2.00pm to 7.00pm
Mondays closed
Guided tours in English are available every day at 2pm
Museo de Arte Hispanoamericano Isaac Fernandez Blanco: Set in the neo-colonial Palacio Noel, the focus of this museum is Hispanic-American art. An impressive display of antique and religious objects, furniture, silver, and paintings dating back to the 1700´s depict a key historic moment where two very different cultures collided to define what South America is today. The museum also hosts concerts, special exhibits and other cultural events. Suipacha 1422, Downtown. 4327.0272.
Museum opening hours:
Tuesday to Friday from 2pm-6pm
Saturday and Sunday from 12am-6pm.
English tours must be booked in advance.
Museo de Arte Español Enrique Larreta: This Spanish Art Museum, decorated as a Spanish renaissance palace and surrounded by a unique Spanish Muslim garden, was the home of author Enrique Larreta. His extensive collection of sculptures, paintings and furniture mostly from the Renaissance and Baroque periods can be appreciated in this ornamented historical landmark. Juramento 2291, Belgrano, 4784-4040.
Museum Opening Hours:
Monday to Friday from 1pm-7pm
Saturday from 10am-8pm
Museo de Arte Popular Jose Hernández: Popular art and local artisans work are displayed in this museums, where you will find ceramics, baskets, knits, instruments and other handmade traditional objects made from local materials. Av. Libertador 2373, Recoleta. 4803-2384
Museum opening hours:
Wednesday to Friday from 1pm-7pm,
Saturday and Sunday from 10am-8pm
Museo de Esculturas Luis Perlotti: Luis Perlotti was a distinguished Argentine sculptor who dealt with native themes and indigenous imagery, as well as producing sculptures and monuments of local characters of the artistic and political scene. In 1969 he donated his house and workshop in Caballito for its use as a museum. The museum showcases an ample selection of his works as well as displaying sculptures by other renowned Argentine artists. Additionally the museum showcases the late sculptors collections of native textiles and archeological objects acquired on his journeys through Argentina, Bolivia and Peru. Pujol 644, Caballito. 4433-3396.
Museum opening hours
Tuesday to Sunday from 11am-7pm
Museo de Artes Plasticas Eduardo Sivory: Ideally located next to the Palermo rose gardens this intimate museum showcases a collection of Argentine art from the twentieth century. Temporary exhibits are also held in this museum which aspires to promote the local artists and industry. Av. Infanta Isabel 555, Palermo. 4774-9452
Museum opening hours:
Tuesday to Friday from midday-8pm
Saturdays and Sundays from 10am-8pm
Museo de Bellas Artes Benito Quinquela Martín: An impressive collection of Argentine art can be appreciated in this museum set in the heart of La Boca, where its famous resident artist Quinquela Martín donated much of his work in support of the local art industry, and of the education of children through art. Av. Pedro de Mendoza 1835, La Boca. 4301-1080.
Museum opening hours:
Tuesday to Sunday from 10.30am-5.30pm
Museo de Xul Solar: This lovely intimate art museum exhibits artists Xul Solar´s colorful metaphysical dreamlike paintings, and also some of his nutty but brilliant inventions, such as a new global language, and the Panjuego, a game which he made up and played with many of his friends including Borges whose books he sometimes illustrated. Laprida 1212, Palermo. 4824-3302.
Museum opening hours:
Monday to Friday from midday- 8pm.
Saturday from midday to 7pm.
Currency Exchange for Tourists in Argentina
(Photo by fotodiagramas)
Last week, the Government made changes to the currency market regulations allegedly to curb tax evasion and money-laundering.
In practical terms, this means that tourists should only sell their foreign currency for pesos at authorized exchange dealers and banks. And to change back their unused pesos when departing, they will have to show exchange stubs for at least the amount they are looking to change back to foreign currency. In both cases they will need to present their passports. Keep this in mind to avoid unwelcome surprises.
A Different Perspective with Foto Ruta Tours
(Photo by paukrus)
A camera is a probably one of the best accessories a traveler can have. It captures unforgettable moments, unique cultural aspects of the stimulating new territory being explored, and it allows us to share the beautiful things we saw with our friends and family. With this in mind and more, professional photographer Jocelyn Mandrake and her associate Becky Hayes have taken tourist photography to a whole new level on their Saturday Foto Ruta tours. What they propose is to get to know the city from another point of view, taking their travelers through off the beaten path locations and setting creative guidelines for the photographs so that they can explore the local colors and characters through the lens from a new perspective, finding what they normally wouldn’t on a typical tourist location. An added element is brought to the experience as the tour group gathers towards the end, sharing and discussing the pictures and different interpretations of the guidelines.
The Foto Ruta tour runs every Saturday from 2pm-6pm and costs 100 pesos. Upcoming locations are listed on the Foto Ruta webpage.
Religious BA
(Buenos Aires Metropolitan Cathedral at the begining of the XX century- photo courtesy of la hipatia)
The influx of cultures brought upon Buenos Aires by the strong migratory currents colored the city with a variety of religious practices and places of worship. At each of the churches and temples, communities of immigrants gathered to celebrate their beliefs in their own languages and songs, before altars built in the architectural style of each tradition. Religion was not only a place to worship God, but also, a place of congregation and belonging.
Now a days, as the descendants of the immigrants become distanced from their ancestral customs, many of the services are in Spanish. Nevertheless the style and cultural tradition is maintained, making for interesting places to visit and understand the history and multicultural background of the city.
Some temples worth visiting are:
Buenos Aires Metropolitan Cathedral
This historic landmark was founded in 1580 as the first Catholic church of Buenos Aires. After undergoing various transformations due to the effects of time and the quality of building materials, it stands today overlooking Plaza de Mayo and the Casa Rosada with a mix of architectural styles combining a Neo-Classic facade and Neo-Renaissance and Neo-Baroque decoration. It is also where San Martin’s remains lie in a mausoleum guarded by statues that represent Argentina, Peru and Chile, the countries the General liberated.
Open Mon-Fri- 7am-7pm, Sat-Sun – 9 am- 7.30pm
Close to the Cathedral is the San Ignacio church built in 1675 by the Jesuits. It is one of the oldest churches in Buenos Aires and is part of the Manzana de las Luces, a network of mysterious underground tunnels and buildings built in the XVII-XVIII centuries.
Tours in English of the tunnels and church are available on Tuesday, Thursday and Friday afternoons with prior booking. Tours in Spanish are available daily.
The church is also open to the public every day from 9am-8pm
Calle Bolivar Nº 225, Monserrat
4331-2458
The story tells that on one Yom Kippur in 1861, two Jewish men gathered at the Recoleta park to read their book of prayers and decided to summon a permanent minyán, that is a group of minimum ten Jewish men who together could ensure that God would hear their prayers. A year later the group was formed and they joined to celebrate Pesaj. This was to be the first version of the National Israeli Congregation.
In 1837 the founding rock was placed and following with a mix of Roman and Byzantine architectural styles, the first synagogue of the city finally found its place.
Now a days it can be visited as part of the tours offered by the Jewish Museum (which is right next door) from Tuesday to Thursday 3pm-6pm and Fridays 3pm-5pm.
*Due to religious festivities the Museum will remain closed on the 13th-14th-20th and 21st of October.
Libertad 769, Downtown
4123-0832
This ornate church with eye-catching cupolas in XVIIth century Russian style, stands in San Telmo in front of Parque Lezama and the Historic National Museum.
Its structure includes five blue cupolas with golden stars crowned by orthodox crosses, which are fastened with chains that face east. Inside are two murals and elaborate symbolic icons amongst which the holy trinity stands out.
Open Saturdays 5pm-8pm and Sundays 10am-midday. The church also opens occasionally on weekdays. This week it will be open on Thursday from 9am-11am.
Brasil 315 – San Telmo
4361-427
Also in San Telmo is the Danish Lutheran Church, which was founded as an institution in 1924, and the neo-gothic style Temple in 1931. The congregation found a common cultural place in the Danish Church where to this day many Danish traditions are still celebrated. Additionally they have a library with extensive Scandinavian literature.
The city also offers religious tours that take you to different temples on the first and third Friday of every month starting at 10AM. Book your place at cultos@buenosaires.gob.ar or visitasguiadasdgcul@yahoo.com.ar, or by phone: 4323-9410 / 4323-8000 int. 2855/2797
We Recommend: A Rural Expedition to an “Estancia”
(Photo by ChrisGoldNY)
With the arrival of spring and sunny days to come the span of activities broadens in the outskirts of the city where short trips to the countryside make for a great way to experience what the local culture is all about. As your are probably very well aware of, one of the focal points of Argentine tradition is the countryside, home of gauchos and many an unfortunate cow. The estancias are rural estates that not only carry out typical rural activities but also have a rich history depicting the settlement patterns and land disputes of this young country.
Horseback riding, polo, fishing, and Fiesta Gaucha (including folkloric dances and races) are all offered as part of the Estancia experience.
Some places to check out are:
La Candelaria Estancia & Polo Club
A top-notch estancia offering everything from gaucho shows to parachuting and massages in a gorgeous French style chateau surrounded by fragrant nature.
This typical estancia outside the city regularly celebrates a Fiesta Gaucha with traditional meals and activities. This is a great day trip option in which transport to and from the Estancia is included.
Built on the shore of a lagoon and surrounded by trees this natural haven offers canoes, bird watching, and horseback riding. Plant lovers will get a chance to walk around the estate with Enrique Pierri, an expert on the surrounding vegetation.
More options here.
Buenos Aires Notable Bars
(Photo by Mellagi)
This week one of the city’s traditional cafes, the Richmond on Florida Avenue, was saved from becoming a sporting goods store. Belonging to the city’s group of 54 ºBares Notables” the emblematic coffee shop, which has been frequented by renowned artists, authors and political figures, was declared a historic monument. Active participants of the city’s bustling cafe life will be gathering today at 4pm to give Confitería Richmond a “hug” and enjoy a rainy afternoon of warm drinks and conversations.
The Richmond, isn’t the only “Bar Notable” to have been at the verge of disappearing, and in fact, some, like El Molino, no longer exist. Thankfully, many others do, and have become a valued part of the city. The history and the elegance of their marble and mirrors, of their white clad waiters and dark wooden furniture, makes sitting in these bars for a break over “cafe con medialunas” an afternoon must. Below is our pick of top notable bars.
Most Popular- Cafe Tortoni
Cafe Tortoni is the oldest and most famous of the city’s traditional bars. Frequented by celebrities, politicians, locals and tourists alike, who come for coffee, history, live shows or a game of pool, fill the large lavish parlors with a special livelihood. Just a few blocks away is Cafe Los 36 Billares. Also worth visiting.
Most Charming- Petit Colon
Just two blocks away from the Colon Theatre and across Plaza Lavalle is the distinguished Petit Colon, a notable bar catering to an elegant crowd of theatre regulars. The ornate wallpaper and the luminous afternoon windows dote this cafe with a special charm making it the perfect place to start the evening before heading to the stately Colon Theatre.
For Hot Chocolate with Churros- La Giralda
A warm alternative to coffee and medialunas for winter days is hot chocolate with churros. The traditional version of hot chocolate is the “Submarino” in which you dunk a bar of chocolate into a glass of hot milk until it melts. The best place to do this is La Giralda on Av. Corrientes, or, the nearby El Gato Negro, which also boasts a large variety of spices and coffee varieties.
For 5 O Clock Tea- Las Violetas
An assortment of cakes, sweets and sandwiches are served on silver plates in this stunning teahouse in the Almagro neighborhood. Golden chandeliers, Italian marble floors, and stained glass windows decorate Las Violetas, a unique place to indulge your sweet tooth.
For Barrio Tango Spirit-Lo de Roberto
Although tango is present in most notable bars, Lo de Roberto in Almagro has an authentic feel to its late night tango gatherings in which the crowds actively participate whilst drinking beers. Close by is another small traditional bar worth visiting, El Banderin, which has its walls covered in football flags from different times and places.
For Late Nights- Bar El Federal
In the heart of San Telmo, Bar El Federal is a daytime bar that becomes a lively pub in the evenings when the crowds come for a typical Fernet and some dancing. The stunning bar has a wooden arch with vitraux details and a stopped clock immediately capturing ones attention and is an inviting place for people watching and a drink or two.
This Week in Buenos Aires
Monday
(Photo by Kara Brugman)
Have a special lunch at the MALBA´s French restaurant, Cafe des Arts, and then spend the rainy afternoon browsing the museums permanent collection of Latin American art and the temporary exhibit of Argentine Contemporary art.
Liven up your evening at Notorious, where cheerful live Brazilian fusion music by Jonga Zambo will be playing.
Figueroa Alcorta 3415, Recoleta
4808-6500
Open Thur-Mon 12-8pm. Tuesdays closed.
Callao 966, Palermo
4813-6888
Tuesday
(Photo by bdeboikot)
The city museum ( Museo de la Ciudad) is showcasing a special exhibit on Boxing and other sports that have influenced the culture. For an afternoon submarino (hot milk with melted chocolate) in a picturesque corner of San Telmo, head to traditional Bar Seddon, just a few blocks away.
In the evening head to the Wherever Bar in Palermo for their 5pm-9pm happy hour and British music.
Museo de la Ciudad
Defensa 219, San Telmo
4331-9855
Open Mon-Fri 11am-7pm. Sat-Sun 10am-8pm.
Bar Seddon
Defensa 695, San Telmo
4342-3700
Fray Justo Sta. Maria de Oro 2476, Palermo
4777-8029
Wednesday
(Photo by Gonzak)
Find out more about popular art and artisans work at the Museo de Jose Hernandez, where you will find ceramics, baskets, knits, instruments and other handmade traditional objects made from local materials.
Club Niceto and Ill Ballo del Mattone are cohosting an Art Party in the evening where some of the local contemporary work will be exhibited as well as live shows ending in an upbeat party that will last until dawn.
Av. Libertador 2373, Recoleta
4803-2384
Open: Wed-Fri 1pm-7pm, Sat-Sun 10am-8pm
Niceto Vega 5510, Palermo.
4779-9396
Thursday
(Photo by Daniel Ivoskus)
Highlights of the scientific and technological advances of the country, as well as special events and shows are being exhibited in Tecnopolis, a technology and innovation fair which will be open until August. The fair is in the outskirts of the city so we suggest you have the hotel help coordinate transport.
At 9pm renowned Blues musician Vernon Harrington will be playing live at La Trastienda.
General Paz between Balbin and Constituyentes. Villa Martelli
Balcarce 460, San Telmo
4342-7650
Friday
(Photo by tasito)
The annual cattle farming and agricultural fair will be taking place until the 26th of July at La Rural in Palermo, showcasing cattle, horses, and other animals as well as regional products and goods and other aspects of the local industry.
In the evening the Centro Cultural Rojas is hosting a party inspired by Gaby Kerpel, a local music-theatre icon who was one of the founders of De La Guarda and who plays a fusion of electronic music with local folklore.
Av. Sarmiento and Plaza Italia corner, Palermo
4777-5500
Centro Cultural Rojas
Av. Corrientes 2038
4954-5521
Saturday and Sunday
(Phot by Maria Teresa Adalid)
Saturday- Puerto Rican dub and reggae singer Mimi Maura will be playing at Club Niceto at 9pm. Niceto Vega 5510, Palermo. 4779-9396.
Saturday-Sunday: Catch one of the shows being staged at the International Puppet Festival.
Wine Tastings at Fierro Hotel
Would you like to know more about Argentine Wines? Then you shouldn’t miss our weekly wine tastings where Certified Sommelier Martin Bruno will take you on a journey through Argentina’s wine producing regions: Salta, San Juan, Mendoza, Rio Negro and Neuquen.
Designed by Bruno and Andres Rosberg, President of the Argentina Sommelier Association, six wines will be showcased with selections changing weekly. Light snacks and hors d’oeuvres from Hernán Gipponi will also be included.
Tastings are held in our cellar every Thursday at 7PM for the price of USD25 Per Person and are limited to 7 people. Book your place, both guests and non-guests are welcome!
Soler 5862, Palermo
3220 6800
Top 10 Things to Do in San Telmo
(Photo by J)
1- Browse the San Telmo Antique Market. Every Sunday over 10 000 visitors from all over the world stop by this world famous market where treasures and trinkets abound. Sundays on Plaza Dorrego and Defensa Street.
2- Visit the many museums in the area and find out more about modern art, puppets, fashion, and the penitentiary. Museum of Modern Art (MAMBA)- Av. San Juan 350. 4342-3001/2970. Puppet Museum (Museo Argentino del Titere)- Piedras 905. 4304 4376. Clothing Museum (Museo Nacional del Traje)- Chile 832. 4343 8427. Penitentiary Museum- Humberto Primo 378. 4361-0917.
3- Take a tour of archeological relic El Zanjon de Granados. Its mysterious hallways and tunnels date back to the 1500’s and were discovered under layers of constructions from other historical periods. El Zanjon de Granados- Defensa 755, 4361-3002.
4- Discover the local art scene by taking a Juanele San Telmo Art Walk- The tour, lasting three hours will show you graffiti, street art, galleries and museums of this colorful neighborhood which so many artist are inspired by. The walk starts at Balcarce 1150 on Tue-Thur 3pm. Book in advance at 4038 6180. More information here.
5- Stop for a cup of coffee at one of the charming Bares Notables. The ornate wood and glass, tiled floors and suggestive creaks will transport you to a different time and place. Try Bar el Federal-Carlos Calvo 559. 4300-4313, El Hipopotamo-Avenida Brasil 401. 4300 8450, and Cafe Dorrego-Defensa 1908. 4361-0141.
6- People watch at Plaza Dorrego. Live music, sensual tango dancers, artisans and all surrounded by cobblestones and cafes are the reason why this Plaza is one of the San Telmo landmarks.
7- Eat local food at a traditional restaurant. Try homemade meals at Lezama, which has been a neighborhood classic for 80 years Brasil 349. 4361-0114, share a table in Cafe San Juan, famous for its top quality food and friendly atmosphere Av. San Juan 450. 4300-1112, or have a big tasty “milanesa” in soccer-flag clad Manolo- Bolivar 1299. 4307-8743.
8- Watch the Evita Vive show, a staged recreation of Evita’s life with music, and dancing. Moreno 364. info@evitavive.com. 6091 2092.
9- Go for some live music to La Trastienda, a small intimate music theatre with great acoustics where local and international talents play jazz, classical, reggae, blues, and rock. Balcarce 460. 4342 7650.
10- Bar hop until the early dawn. Try Doppelganger for top quality cocktails and glamour -Av. Juan de Garay 500. 4300-0201, Gibraltar for draught beer, great curries and a laid-back atmosphere -Peru 895. 4632-5310, or La Puerta Roja for boisterous lat night partying -Chacabuco 733. 4362-5649.
This Week in Buenos Aires
Plenty of alternative and off the beaten path activities will be hosted this week in Buenos Aires after a long and rainy weekend! Between the announcement of the presidential candidates and all the live music and theatre options, the city is sure to be abuzz.
Tuesday
(Picture taken in the Evita museum 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.
In the evening, head to the stately Claridge Hotel’s tea parlor for a free concert by Opera Singer Elena Tasisto at 7pm.
Lafinur 2988
4807-0306
Tue-Sun 11am-7pm
Tucumán 535
4314-2020
Wednesday
(9 de Julio and Corrientes Avenue by everdaniel)
Take a walk down Corrientes Avenue and stop by the Gran Rex Theatre for a free Vivaldi concert at 1pm. Only 9 blocks away is the best pizza in town at El Cuartito.
Later in the evening you can catch the stunning Fuerza Bruta show being staged until Friday at the Luna Park. Tickets here.
If you’re up for drinks, or some vegetarian food, head to Magdalena’s Party in Palermo, which opens from 8pm-3am.
Gran Rex Theatre
Av. Corrientes 857
4322-8000
El Cuartito
Talcahuano 937
4816-1758
Thames 1795, Palermo
4833.9127
Thursday
(Museo Penitenciario by Edgar Zuniga Jr.)
Weather forecasts predict rain for Thursday so it’s a good day to visit museums. An interesting alternative is the Museo Penitenciario (the penitentiary museum) set in a building that dates back to 1732. The display traces the history of the federal prison activity and shows objects, and archives.
Later on visit the Festival en Pantalla Chica, in the Centro Cultural Rojas, which will be screening a selection of the “Best youtube videos” At 7pm.
In the evening the Ernesto Jodos Trio will be playing jazz at Thelonious at 9.30pm.
Museo Penitenciario
Humberto Primo 378, San Telmo
4361-0917.
tomuseopenitenciario@spf.gov.ar
Opening Hours: Thur-Sun 2pm-6pm.
Guided tours: 5pm
Corrientes 2038
4954-5521
Salguero 1884, 1st floor, Palermo
4829-1562
Friday
(Museo Nacional de Arte Decorativo by Iggykaser)
Inside a beautiful French style building you will find The Decorative Art Museum, which showcases a collection of local and foreign objects and furniture. Currently they are also hosting a temporary exhibit of Swedish ceramics. The building in itself makes the museum well worth the visit and the cafe in the courtyard is a lovely place for an afternoon stop.
In the evening the British Arts center is staging Chekhov’s “The Marriage Proposal” at 9pm.
For some live music later on, head to Thelonious, where Pipi Piazzolla (Astor Piazzollas grandson) will be playing at midnight.
Museo Nacional de Arte Decorativo
Av.del Libertador 1902
4801-8248
Suipacha 1333, downtown
4393-6941
Salguero 1884, 1st floor, Palermo
4829-1562
Saturday and Sunday
(Book Tower of Babel. skaycito)
Last few days to visit the Book Tower of Babel installed in the center of town. Plaza San Martin from midday-8pm.
On Sunday head to the beautiful Japanese gardens where a Reiki marathon will be taking place. Av. Figueroa Alcorta and Av. Casares from 10am-6pm.
