Argentina Travel Planet

Azul

In the geographical center of the province of Buenos Aires sits Azul, founded in 1832 by Rosas’ order. Its original inhabitants called the town “calvú mapu” (blue country) because there is a “calvú leuvú” (blue creek) there, which now passes through the Parque Sarmiento. Stately mansions of the early twentieth century, a Gothic-style cathedral, the Spanish Theatre with its 1897 marquee, the Church of the Good Shepherd, the López Claro art museum and the Ethnographic and Historic Archive are all part of its invaluable heritage.

The town was declared a Cervantina City of Argentina by the Castilla-La Mancha UNESCO Center in 2007, and has since become home to even more cultural events than it offered before, including the Cervantes festival, which is held each November.

Transcending the limits of its own province, Azul is a gem of Buenos Aires, this is a great Argentina travel destination that offers many things for the tourist to do, while still maintaining its own heritage. Not really a “tourist town”, it can be enjoyed by visitors without having to deal with the masses of tourists that can often overtake any given place.

Besides the beautiful buildings that line the streets, the city is home to many open green spaces and various bodies of water, which make it the perfect place to stroll around and enjoy the fresh air. Plaza San Martín is a focal point, surrounded by trees and benches to relax on. It also has significant historical relevance, as the settlement in 1832. Today, it is home to a monument of General San Martín.

The Alte. Guillermo Brown Municipal Bath is another place not to be missed. Originally, the area was used as a pathway for cattle and carts, although today it is just used by those wishing to enjoy the sunshine and fresh air surrounding this 6-hectare body of water. It is surrounded by many great restaurants, ice cream cafes and fast food places, as well as a tourist information office. Live concerts are often offered here during the summer. When not there for an event, enjoy the sandy beaches, grills, picnic tables and nearby shops.

While there is much to do on a daily basis, the city is also home to many different festivals and cultural events. The local cultural authority offers many classes and workshops, such as the Salón Nacional de Pintura y Dibujo, where you can hone your painting and drawing skills.

The city also offers many Encounters, which are basically mini festivals. These include everything from theatre events to car shows to world artisan days, and last anywhere from a few days to an entire month.

Other events include various parties and festivals. The provincial cattle fiesta (Fiesta Provincial de la Vaca) brings in many from all over the province, and celebrates what Argentina is most famous for: its delectable meat. Thirty cows are brought in for a large asado, and music and dance shows celebrate Argentina’s history. Artisan goods are also for sale.

Perhaps the most famous festival is the Festival Cervantino, which came to be after the UNESCO designation. While it recognizes the literary culture of the city, relating it to Cervantes, the famed Spanish author of Don Quixote, the festival includes a range of cultural activities, including visual arts, theatre, dance, music, photography, cinema and design.

Whether you come for the city itself or one of its many festivals or cultural events, there is no doubt that you will leave w