I had always thought that Buenos Aires was on
the ocean. Instead, I have discovered
(by simply examining the map!) that it flanks the Rio de la Plata, a massive
river that is 200km wide at its mouth. Nestled
down in this mouth is the Puerto Madero, the port of Buenos Aires. A significant and strategic location, this
port was originally the key to the establishment of the city and allowed BA to
flourish, particularly during the 20th century when it was a busy
port exporting various Argentinian produce throughout the world.
The port was also the first landfall for
immigrants arriving in BA and while originally a Spanish settlement, the 20th
century saw the Italian population boom.
Sadly as is the case with many of these old
ports, its narrow wharves and locks proved inadequate for modern shipping so a
new port has been established just north of the city centre resulting in the decay
and dilapidation of the beautiful old port buildings. Fortunately, some visionaries were given the
green light in the late 90s to rejuvenate the area, paving the way for a new
way of looking at the wonderful old port buildings and warehouses.
Today, it is seeing a new life as a waterfront
entertainment and residential neighborhood.
Quite ritzy really with some fabulous restaurants and I just love how
what was becoming an eyesore is now a great spot for recreation and
families. A stroll (or promenade as its
called here) along the wharves is wonderful and its amazing to see all the
joggers, people walking their dogs, kids playing soccer and people just
enjoying a coffee or wine. A real
compliment to the City of Buenos Aires and recycling at is best.