After our visit to the Azul municipal cemetery , we ran to find a place to eat. It was Saturday at 2PM, we assumed that there must be several places open to eat but this was not the case. We took a couple of laps into the city center and there seemed to be no restaurant, which was very strange. Instead we ended up eating some fast food in the downtown square, in front of the cathedral .

The plaza in the center of the city of Azul was very similar to those in the center of the city of Buenos Aires (as if both were not in the same province). My aunts are fans of photos, they like to show that they were in that place, so I have photos of them everywhere . In addition, the day was beautiful so the sun allowed to take beautiful photos.

What I like about churches is their architecture. I am not a religious person, but I love to admire the constructions and all the work that is behind each church or cathedral. They really are an icon of history and it is good that they keep them as such through the years.

This cathedral dates from 1906. It is really very old but both inside and outside it is preserved in the best way. Perhaps it has to do with that Azul is a somewhat small city and they like to keep their tourist spots well organized.

The inside was really beautiful. These kinds of churches make you want to get married just to walk around in a beautiful dress. Ok, very romantic isn't it? The truth is that there was peace in there with soft music, no wedding at that time.

The furniture also matches the architecture of the place: heavy chairs everywhere. I doubt that in this last time of pandemic they have all been complete. Perhaps in a wedding if they have been (I continue with the idea of the dream wedding).

Fortunately, my friend and I are able to do these trips thanks to our beloved Hive platform. That's why while we enjoy ourselves, we don't forget to create content for our blogs ❤️. Currently my phone has hundreds of photos from this trip. I have yet to review and share them with you .

Visiting the inside of the cathedral was an unexpected walk since, due to Covid issues, I thought it would not be open to the public. It made me happy that my aunts are happy about that in the religious sense since they took the opportunity to say some prayers ❤️.

Finally, we ended up staying in Azul town until after 3 PM. Then it was time to leave for our main destination: Sierra de la Ventana. By then we still had quite a stretch ahead of us, so it was good to stretch our legs a bit and recharge by eating something and getting to know a great place ❤️.

source

As an habitant of the city of Buenos Aires, sometimes I forget that there are beautiful places to go for a walk and interesting activities to be part of. This is in such a way that I was not able to know the Japanese Garden until 2018, when, attracted by an advertisement, I found out that this "Fire Festival" would take place there.

Getting there took us two hours by public transport: train, subway and a bus. A bit long trip but it was worth it because the garden was beautiful. Admission cost us 120 ARS, although there are specific days you can enter for free. Since a special activity was taking place that day, there were many more people than usual.

Through informational brochures they explained to us that this festival aims to burn the bad things of the past to give way to new and better things. That is why each entrant was given a small piece of wood like this one on which we had to write down the bad things we wanted the fire to destroy.

At the end of the afternoon, all the small woods were deposited in a boat and burned in the middle of the lake. It was a very exciting moment for everyone .

In the garden there was a museum where you could see elements of Japanese culture. At the entrance of the museum there were trees where you could hang a small card with all the good wishes you had. I really loved this whole thing about bringing in the good energy and getting rid of the bad .

I always liked these lucky kittens and that day I learned that they are called Manekineko .

Undoubtedly, this walk was very enriching, besides that it was a very pleasant day to be outdoors. I would like to return to this garden one day when there are not so many people as it can be a great place to go to rest and relax admiring how beautiful it is ❤.

source

I'm sharing some photos of the sunrise on the beaches of the seaside resort of Santa Teresita, the place chosen this year to enjoy a well-deserved summer vacation.

That day was very cloudy, so the sun couldn't be appreciated in all its splendor. It was 5:30 a.m., and I was amazed at the number of people already on the beach waiting for sunrise. Since it's summer in Argentina, the sun rises very early.

source

In the heart of the Flores neighborhood of Buenos Aires, stands a majestic castle that has witnessed more than a century of history. Built 110 years ago, this castle was originally the residence of a wealthy family who came to the city in search of new opportunities. Over time, the family moved, and the castle passed through several hands, until it was finally acquired by the local government and transformed into a public school.

The rebirth of the castle

The castle, with its imposing towers and stone walls, had always been a symbol of mystery and grandeur in the neighborhood. When it was announced that it would become a school, the community was filled with curiosity and anticipation. Architects and workers worked hard to preserve the original structure while adapting the interior for modern educational needs.

A place of learning and dreams

Today, the castle is known as Public School No. 110 "Castillo de Flores." Children attending the school not only receive a quality education but also have the opportunity to learn in a unique setting steeped in history. Classrooms are decorated with murals telling the story of the castle and the neighborhood, and teachers use the building as an educational tool, teaching students about architecture and local history.

Intertwined stories

Among the students is a girl named Sofia who has always felt a special connection to the castle. Her great-grandfather had worked as a gardener at the original residence, and she grew up hearing his stories about the castle's glory days. Inspired by these stories, Sofia dreams of becoming an architect to restore and preserve historic buildings.

The legacy of the castle

The castle in the Flores neighborhood is not only a place of learning, but also a symbol of the community's resilience and evolution. It has transformed from a private residence into a public space that enriches the lives of the neighborhood's children and families. Every day, as students run through the hallways and play in the gardens, the castle continues to write new stories, interweaving the past with the present and the future.

Thus, Flores Castle remains a beacon of knowledge and hope, reminding everyone that, over time, places and people can transform and find new purposes.

source

In the heart of Buenos Aires, on San Martín Street, stands the majestic Central Bank of the Argentine Republic (BCRA). Built between 1872 and 1876 by architects Henry Hunt and Hans Schroeder, this building has witnessed countless historic events.

On a summer night, as the city slept, the building seemed to come alive. The columns and pilasters that surround its two floors whispered stories of its past, from its time as the headquarters of the Mortgage Bank of the Province of Buenos Aires to its transformation into the Supreme Court of Justice of the Nation in 1888. In 1912, it became the headquarters of the Conversion Fund, the precursor to the BCRA.

However, the building now faced an unusual threat. Javier Milei, the charismatic and controversial president, had promised during his campaign to "blow up" the Central Bank, a metaphor for his desire to close the institution and radically reform the country's economy.² This promise had generated both fear and hope among citizens.

One night, as Milei walked through the deserted streets of Buenos Aires, he stopped in front of the imposing building. The city lights reflected off the bank's windows, creating an almost mystical aura. Milei, with his signature tousled hair and intense gaze, stared up at the structure. In his mind, the building represented everything he considered obsolete and corrupt in the Argentine financial system.

But the building, with its recently restored façade, seemed to challenge him. Stories from its past echoed in the air, reminding Milei that it wasn't just a building, but a symbol of the country's history and resilience.¹ At that moment, Milei realized that his fight wasn't against the building itself, but against the invisible structures of power and corruption that had taken root in society.

Determined to transform the country, Milei realized that destruction was not the answer. Instead of blowing up the building, he decided to turn it into a symbol of change and renewal. He announced a plan to transform the Central Bank into a center of financial innovation, where new economic policies would be developed and transparency and efficiency would be fostered.

The Central Bank building, with its rich history and new mission, became a beacon of hope for the Argentine people. And so, instead of being destroyed, the building was reinvented, reflecting the indomitable spirit of a country that always finds a way to revive itself.

source

In a picturesque corner of the city, a 140-year-old building stood like a guardian of the past. Its white brick walls and wood-framed windows told stories of a time when life was slower and families spent afternoons on their balconies, watching the world go by.

The building, known to everyone as "The Corner," had an elegance that stood the test of time. However, the city had grown around it, and modern glass and steel towers were beginning to encircle it, threatening to replace its historic presence with something more contemporary.

One day, news broke that developers were planning to demolish La Esquina to build a skyscraper. Upon hearing this, the community erupted in protest. Neighbors recalled how their grandparents would tell them about the social gatherings in the building's lobby, the rooftop parties, and the times when La Esquina had been the epicenter of the neighborhood's social life.

Led by María, a young historian who lived in the building, residents organized petitions, marches, and meetings to save their beloved building. María compiled stories, photos, and testimonies from those who had lived in La Esquina over the years, creating a dossier showcasing its historical and cultural value.

On the day of the public hearing, the hall was packed. María stood, dossier in hand, and spoke passionately about the importance of preserving the neighborhood's memory, of maintaining a tangible connection with the past. Her words resonated in the hearts of everyone present.

In the end, the commission ruled in favor of the residents. La Esquina was not only saved, but also declared a cultural heritage site, ensuring its preservation for future generations. The developers agreed to restore the building, respecting its original architecture, and convert the upper floors into modern housing without altering its historic essence.

La Esquina remained the neighborhood's soul, now with a new lease on life that combined the old and the new, symbolizing the resilience and tenacity of a community that understood that progress doesn't always mean forgetting the past.

source

In the heart of Puerto Madero, Buenos Aires, stood the majestic Twin Towers, two imposing buildings that had become a symbol of modernity and progress. These towers, with their glass and steel facades, reflected the sky and the river, creating a visual spectacle that attracted both locals and tourists.

The Twin Towers were not only an architectural landmark, but also a center of activity and life. Their first floors housed elegant shops, haute cuisine restaurants, and cozy cafes. The upper floors housed offices of major companies and luxury apartments with panoramic views of the city and the Río de la Plata.

One of the most fascinating stories related to the Twin Towers was that of Ana and Martín, two young architects who had worked on the design and construction of the buildings. From the first day they met at university, they shared a common vision: to create spaces that were not only functional but also inspiring.

When the opportunity to work on the Twin Towers project presented itself, Ana and Martín didn't hesitate. They poured all their effort and creativity into every detail, from the structure to the interior spaces. Their goal was for the towers to be not only a place of work and residence, but also a meeting place and a community.

As the towers took shape, Ana and Martín realized that their professional collaboration had evolved into a deep friendship. They spent long hours working together, discussing ideas and overcoming challenges. Their shared passion for architecture and design united them in a special way.

On the day of the inauguration of the Twin Towers, Ana and Martín stood together in the central plaza, proudly observing their creation. The towers sparkled in the sun, and the plaza was filled with people admiring the beauty and grandeur of the buildings. At that moment, Ana and Martín realized they had achieved their dream: they had created a space that was not only impressive but also had the power to connect people.

Over time, the Twin Towers became a symbol of Ana and Martín's vision and dedication. Their story inspired many other young architects to follow their dreams and believe in the transformative power of design. The towers, with their imposing presence, continued to be a beacon of modernity and hope in the Buenos Aires cityscape.

source

In the heart of the Flores neighborhood of Buenos Aires, there is a square that has witnessed countless stories and special moments. In the center of this square is a merry-go-round, one of the few that still retains the charm and magic of the old days. For children and their families, the merry-go-round in Flores Square is not just a game, but a place full of memories and joy.

The merry-go-round, with its colorful roof and hand-painted wooden horses, attracts children of all ages. Its owner, Don Ernesto, an elderly man with a white beard and a perpetual smile, has been caring for the merry-go-round for over thirty years. For him, keeping it running is a passion and a responsibility he embraces with love.

Every evening, Don Ernesto turns on the lights on the merry-go-round and plays cheerful music that accompanies the steady roll of the horses and wagons. The children, their eyes shining with excitement, line up, waiting for their turn to ride. Their parents, meanwhile, watch with tenderness and nostalgia, remembering the days when they themselves rode on that same merry-go-round.

One day, a little girl named Sofia arrived at the plaza with her grandfather. It was her first time visiting the merry-go-round, and her excitement was palpable. Sofia chose a white horse with a golden mane, and her grandfather helped her onto it. As the merry-go-round began to spin, Sofia felt the wind on her face and the melody filling the air, creating a magical moment she would never forget.

Don Ernesto, seeing Sofía's joy, remembered how his own grandfather used to take him on that same merry-go-round as a child. It was a tradition passed down from generation to generation, and every laugh and smile was a testament to the happiness the merry-go-round brought to so many people.

Over the years, the merry-go-round in Flores Square became a neighborhood symbol, a place where birthdays were celebrated, new friendships were made, and lasting memories were created. The community deeply appreciated Don Ernesto's dedication and the effort he put into keeping the magic of the merry-go-round alive.

On a special occasion, the neighbors organized a party to celebrate the merry-go-round's 50th anniversary. They decorated the square with garlands and balloons and brought food and sweets to share. Don Ernesto, moved by the surprise, thanked everyone and spoke a few words about the importance of keeping traditions and community spirit alive.

That afternoon, the merry-go-round spun more than ever, packed with children and adults reminiscing about their own childhoods. Flores Square resounded with laughter and music, and the sky lit up with fireworks, marking an unforgettable evening.

And so, the merry-go-round in Flores Square continued to turn, day after day, carrying with it the magic of childhood dreams and the love of a community that embraced it like a priceless treasure. Don Ernesto continued to care for it with devotion, knowing that each turn brought with it a new story and a new moment of happiness.

source

In the vibrant Caballito neighborhood of Buenos Aires, the Caacupé Church was a place of gathering and devotion for many. However, there was one group of parishioners who shared a special and unique passion: their devotion to the Virgin of Chiquinquirá, affectionately known as "La Chinita," from the state of Zulia in Venezuela.

This devotion had begun years earlier, when a small group of Venezuelan immigrants settled in the neighborhood. They brought their traditions with them, and with them, their deep faith in La Chinita. Initially, meetings were held in private homes, where they prayed and shared stories of miracles attributed to the Virgin. Over time, this small community grew and decided to bring their devotion to the Caacupé church, making it the spiritual heart of their faith in Buenos Aires.

Every year, on November 18th, the community celebrated the festival of La Chinita with great fervor, coinciding with the celebration in Zulia. The Caacupé church was transformed into a sea of color, with Venezuelan flags and floral arrangements in shades of yellow, blue, and red, reminiscent of their homeland. The statue of the Virgin of Chiquinquirá, a gift brought from Maracaibo, was placed on a special altar, adorned with flowers and candles.

The celebrations began early in the morning with a solemn Mass. The parish priest, moved by the community's devotion, always dedicated special words to La Chinita and the immigrants who had found a new home in Buenos Aires. The voices of the parishioners joined in songs and prayers, filling the atmosphere with a unique spiritual energy.

After Mass, the celebration continued in the church courtyard. There were food stands where you could taste arepas, empanadas, hallacas, and other typical Venezuelan dishes, lovingly prepared by the families of the community. Music filled the air, with Zulia gaitas and other rhythms reminiscent of the beloved distant land.

The children, dressed in traditional costumes, danced and played, learning the traditions of their parents and grandparents. For many of them, these celebrations were a way to connect with their roots and understand the importance of La Chinita in their lives.

During the evening procession, the statue of the Virgin of Chiquinquirá was carried on a platform through the streets of the neighborhood, accompanied by a multitude of devotees. People of different cultures and nationalities joined along the way, drawn by the faith and joy radiating from the community. Songs and prayers echoed from every corner, and the neighborhood was filled with a spirit of unity and hope.

Devotion to the Virgin of Chiquinquirá at the Caacupé church not only strengthened the faith of Venezuelans in the neighborhood but also created bonds of brotherhood with fellow parishioners. The story of this devotion became a testament to resilience and the ability of human beings to find solace and community, even far from home.

Thus, the Caacupé church in Caballito became a beacon of faith and love, where the Virgin of Chiquinquirá found her second home and where the devotion of her community remained alive and vibrant, illuminating the hearts of all who venerated her.

source

Welcome to a new walk with me, today we are going to San Telmo, this post is going to be full of stories because I love this neighborhood and I visit it often, and also many photos that do not ajustician the neighborhood, why? because everything is beautiful and portrayable in the old San Pedro Telmo.

Very close to here is the neighborhood of La Boca, another classic for sightseeing and tourists, the cancha, caminito, many museums, sculptures, Puerto Madero, etc.

Sculptures in the city, this corner is one of my favorites in San Telmo. The sculptures correspond to old cartoons that had a classic era. Super hijitus is beautiful coming out of his little hat that transforms him. And Larguirucho just looks tender and innocent, characteristic qualities in him.

Classic courtyard of an old conventillo, this part always reminds me of an old Argentine play, El conventillo de la paloma, tender and sweet story if there is one, mixing just what happened here, Italians, Spaniards, young women, lonely, misunderstandings, information and suspicion. It is a really funny play if you ever have the opportunity to read it or see a theater adaptation.

Anyway, this space is known as "El patio de los Ezeiza", you can see more of its history here and remember that being so close to Plaza Dorrego, everything here is walked two or three times, the walk is a little back and forth, back to the square, or back to where the candombe and cachengue are.

Old walls, doors and cultural centers, painted, drawn, it is a very artistic neighborhood that brings together possibilities for all tastes. Here we see in the fileteado porteño also mixing with more colors than just the classics, and a bandoneon crowning the work.

This particular day I went there with a friend, to whom I gave a crocheted Grogu, my friend was looking for a name for his new doll all afternoon, and at nightfall, we sat in a pizzeria in the old San Telmo Market, there he asked the waitress "what do you think I should call the doll that my friend made?" And the waitress without hesitation said "Regina, as the name of our pizzeria" And there is Regina, the day she received with love its new owner and its name so original.

There are fairs and fairs in Buenos Aires, but the one in San Telmo is unique and incomparable, its prices the same. Along Dorrego street, along Defensa street, along the alleys, in every corner you will find art and artisans. They correspond to a very touristic area and this makes the prices of everything more excessive. Anyway, as I shy away from crowds (and there are a lot of people here) I usually walk around the fair when they are closing and leaving.

The walk is to do it quietly and if you can, take a whole day, very close you find very entertaining things, from museums, historical places, Puerto Madero, everything is very photographable, all the cobblestone streets smell of tango and folklore, you find if you are lucky some free street class and you leave knowing some basic steps.

I hope you enjoyed this tour of San Telmo, Buenos Aires, and if you come sometime, let me know, I'm a good tour guide of this neighborhood!

source

With the new year comes the nostalgia of missing vacation travel. Actually, travel in general. Here in Argentina a few months ago tourism was reopened, but with the request for several special permits and laboratory tests to confirm that you are free of Coronavirus. 

This allowed several tourist sectors to reactivate their economy after so many months of desolation, however now the possibility of a return to a strict quarantine is being considered due to the increase in infections that have emerged in recent days.

Visit to Los Acantilados. 

That is why we travelers only have to remember the trips we made when it was possible, eager to make others soon. Today I want to share with you this trip to the cliffs of the city of Mar del Plata that I did in 2017 .

The city of Mar del Plata is for excellence the summer destination of the coast of Buenos Aires. In the center of the city, many tourists always accumulate due to its great popularity, but it is enough to go a few miles away from the center to find much quieter places.

My dear Grandma Norma.

"Los Acantilados" beach is located 9 miles from the city center, south of the Punta Mogotes Lighthouse. We went in winter, so that day it was quite cold.

 Los Acantilados out of season. 

From above, the view was incredible. To access the beach, you had to go down a staircase of approximately 20 meters. Easy to go down, not so easy to go up.

Once down, the beach was quiet with some rocks. Since it was winter, there weren't that many people around. Just some people surfing. They surprised me because the day was really cold and they were swimming in their wetsuits.

A quiet beach, without tourists.

We spent the afternoon there drinking "mate" (an infusion of yerba mate, which is drunk with a light bulb, shared by everyone present). It should be noted that since the pandemic began, we no longer share "mates" 

I would like to know the cliffs in the summer season. It must be beautiful to be swiming in the sea with those rocky views.

A nice view from the rocks.

 Note: This post has two peculiarities:

a) It was originally written during the COVID-19 pandemic (or rather, when it was just finishing its ravages in Argentina and the rest of the world)

b) It's a travel tour we took with others at the end of winter. I think it's clear to see how we're dressed.