As the metropolitan capital, Buenos Aires is the most famous city in Argentina. Beyond that, one of the best facts about Buenos Aires is the blend of European and Latin American cultures that can be observed in different aspects. From the international food scene to the colonial architecture, this is an exciting destination to explore.
Historical Facts About Buenos Aires
The history of a country and city often sheds some light on its society today. Here are some fun facts about Buenos Aires
World’s Widest Avenue Is Here
The 9th July Avenue is located in the city center. This is the world’s widest avenue which has been named after the independence date of Argentina. This site is 140 meters long and extends from the northern part of the city to the southern part. It is one of the proud facts of Buenos Aires.
An iconic Obelisk is also located on this avenue and it’s a major gathering point for events, both celebrations and protests. This spot always looks wild whenever something major happens such as Argentina winning the World Cup in 2023.
Undoubtedly, this avenue is one of the iconic landmarks in Argentina.
The Oldest Subway Network In Latin America Is In Buenos Aires
The Buenos Aires Underground network is one of the easiest ways to get around this city. It has six lines that operate on 56.7 kilometers long route. There are also 90 stations under this network. It is also super cheap to ride; just make sure you get a Sube card for transportation in Buenos Aires.
Cultural Facts About Buenos Aires
One of the biggest attractions of Argentina is none other than the local culture. While there are similarities across the country, there are also differences in regions and cities. After all, the geographical terrain, climate, and landscape can all vary, leading to different lifestyles. Here are some interesting facts about Buenos Aires and its traditions.
Tango Dance Has Buenos Aires Origins
Argentina is famous for its tango heritage and hosts many tango dance festivals. This dance originated from the brothels of Buenos Aires in various areas, such as San Telmo. Many people considered it offensive until the dance was brought to Paris. It is now recognized by UNESCO as a cultural heritage and is even performed worldwide.
Asados Is The Main Food Of Buenos Aires
One of the top Buenos Aires facts for foodies is that it is a major hub for trying Argentine cuisine. While the food scene is pretty international, you simply cannot miss out on the local delights.
Asado is one of the must-have experiences in Argentina. In the food sense, it includes a barbecue where people cook blood sausages, beef sweetbreads, chimichurri meat cuts, and more.
However, that is not the only special aspect of it. The main gist of an Asado lies in the social experience. It is a fun gathering with friends and families – meat, music, wine, lots of cheer, and laughter. Asado is considered a lifestyle by many locals in Buenos Aires, and people can have Asado almost every day. Who doesn’t love a good party?
The City Has Free Public Schools
One of the most amazing facts about Argentina is that it considers education to be a lawful right of every student. This is why people don’t have to pay fees when attending a public school. The University of Buenos Aires is also free and doesn’t require you to take an exam for admission.
Simple Facts About Buenos Aires For Kids
Here are some fun Buenos Aires facts that can be fascinating for the young ones.
It Has The Highest Number Of Bookshops
One of the lesser-known facts about Buenos Aires is that it is a major hub for book lovers. There are 20.1 bookshops per 100,000 individuals in this city.
The city’s largest bookshop is also a former theater. El Ateneo Grand Splendid has been divided into a café and a library for book lovers. The architecture of the site is also mesmerizing. It is one of the top places to visit in Buenos Aires.
The Largest Japanese Garden Outside Japan Is Here
Jardin Japones is a famous site in Palermo that opened in the late 20th century. It was designed to commemorate the visit of the Japanese crown prince of that era. The garden is known for its bonsai tree collection.
You need to pay a small entry fee, but it’s a nice tranquil getaway from the bustling city area. Particularly since it is near the more touristic district of Palermo Soho.
Useful Buenos Aires Facts For Travelers
Here are some fun Buenos Aires facts that can help in planning a trip to the capital. There is a reason why this city is becoming one of the popular digital nomad hubs around the world.
Recoleta Cemetery Has The Highest Number Of Visitors
One of the interesting facts about Buenos Aires is that a graveyard is its most attractive site. It was founded in 1822 and has 5,000 mausoleums. Many famous personalities have been buried here, such as Eva Peron and former Argentinian presidents.
This is one of the famous landmarks in Buenos Aires, which probably receives more visitors than any other cemetery. It is not just huge but filled with these intricate and grand-looking graves.
ESMA Museum Is On UNESCO’S World Heritage Tentative List
ESMA Museum is a rich cultural site in Buenos Aires that has been nominated by the country to gain UNESCO World Heritage status. It has been dedicated to military dictatorship prisoners. If you are looking for something to do indoors while in Buenos Aires, this is an insightful and educational attraction to visit.
Argentine Peso Is Not The Same As US Dollar
Although the Argentine Peso uses the same dollar symbol ($) as the US Dollars, note that they do not carry the same value. The exchange rates and notes of these two currencies are different. The Argentine Peso is also often written as ARS.
If you are a foreign visitor, you also want to be aware of the Official rate and the ‘Blue’ rate to get the most bang for your buck. Read about it here in our Guide to Buenos Aires.
Discovering More Fun Facts About Buenos Aires
The vibrant city of Buenos Aires offers a unique blend of history, culture, and modernity, making it a must-visit destination for travelers from around the world. The myriad of facts about Buenos Aires not only enhances our understanding of this mesmerizing city but also deepens our appreciation for its diverse traditions and remarkable landmarks.
From charming cafes to passionate tango dancing and delicious flavors of Argentine food, Buenos Aires is sure to leave a lasting impression on your senses and create unforgettable memories. Embark on an incredible journey to uncover the fascinating stories hidden within the heart of Argentina’s capital city.
