Buenos Aires

Nuestra Señora del Buen Aire plaza Cerdeña

Garay2

Buenos Aires (Aldus Verthoont, ca 1628)

General view of Buenos Ayres from the Plaza de Toros - Emeric Essex Vidal - Picturesque illustrations of Buenos Ayres and Monte Video (1820)

Pellegrini Buenos Aires Catedral

Buenos Aires is the capital city and largest city of Argentina, as well as one of the largest cities in Latin America. It is located on the southeastern coast of the continent, along the western shore of the Río de la Plata, an estuary of the Atlantic Ocean. Buenos Aires is considered an Alpha City, reflecting its role as a major hub for finance, commerce, culture, and politics in the region.

History

The area that is now Buenos Aires was first settled by the indigenous peoples in the 16th century. The city was founded by Spanish explorer Pedro de Mendoza in 1536, under the name Ciudad de Nuestra Señora Santa María del Buen Aire (City of Our Lady Saint Mary of the Good Air). However, the initial settlement was abandoned due to indigenous attacks. It was re-established in 1580 by Juan de Garay, and from that point, it grew as a key trade port due to its strategic location.

Throughout the centuries, Buenos Aires has been the center of various significant events, including the May Revolution of 1810, which marked the beginning of the Argentine War of Independence from Spain. In the 19th and early 20th centuries, the city saw a massive influx of immigrants, mainly from Europe, which significantly influenced its architecture, culture, and demographics.

Geography

Buenos Aires is characterized by its flat topography and is divided into 48 barrios (neighborhoods), each with its own distinct personality and attractions. The city's layout is mostly based on a grid pattern, a common feature of Spanish colonial cities, with Plaza de Mayo serving as the historical and political center.

The climate of Buenos Aires is classified as humid subtropical, featuring hot summers and mild winters. The city experiences significant rainfall throughout the year, which supports its lush vegetation and numerous parks and green spaces.

Culture

Buenos Aires is renowned for its rich cultural life. It is the birthplace of the tango, a dance and music genre that has gained international recognition. The city hosts numerous theaters, museums, and galleries, including the famous Teatro Colón, one of the world's leading opera houses.

The city's literary scene is vibrant, with Buenos Aires being home to many writers and serving as the setting for numerous literary works. It also boasts a diverse culinary landscape, influenced by its history of immigration, with Italian and Spanish cuisines being particularly prominent.

Economy

As the economic hub of Argentina, Buenos Aires has a diverse economy, with strong sectors in finance, real estate, and tourism. The Port of Buenos Aires is one of the busiest in South America, facilitating a significant portion of the country's foreign trade. The city also has a dynamic tech industry, with many startups and tech companies establishing their presence in the region.

Transportation

Buenos Aires has a comprehensive public transportation network, including buses, a subway system known as the Subte, and commuter trains that connect the city with its suburbs. The city also has a significant number of cyclists, supported by an extensive network of bike lanes.

See also

• List of people from Buenos Aires
• Economy of Argentina
• Culture of Argentina