Country | Argentina |
Population | 3120612 |
Area | 203 km2 (78 sq mi) |
Time Zone | UTC−3 (ART) |
Coordinates | -34.61315, -58.37723 |
Highest elevation | 25 m (82 ft) |
City Gallery
City Description
Buenos Aires, the vibrant capital of Argentina, is a city that truly embodies its nickname, “The Paris of South America.” Located on the western shore of the Río de la Plata, Buenos Aires enjoys a strategic position on South America’s southeastern coast. The name “Buenos Aires,” which translates to “fair winds” or “good airs,” reflects the city’s breezy, temperate climate. As an Alpha global city, according to the Globalization and World Cities Research Network (GaWC) 2020, Buenos Aires stands out for its influence and connectivity on the global stage.
Spanning 203 square kilometers (78 square miles), Buenos Aires is a sprawling metropolis with a population of approximately 3.1 million within its city limits. When including the Greater Buenos Aires conurbation, the metropolitan area boasts around 13.8 million residents, making it the fifth-most populous urban area in the Americas. It is also the second largest city south of the Tropic of Capricorn, following São Paulo.
The city’s rich history dates back to its foundation in 1536 by Spanish explorer Pedro de Mendoza. After several early settlements were abandoned due to indigenous resistance and hardships, Buenos Aires was re-established in 1580 by Juan de Garay. The city has played a significant role in Argentina’s history, notably as the site of the May Revolution in 1810, which marked the beginning of the country’s struggle for independence from Spain.
Buenos Aires has been a federal city since 1880, when it was separated from Buenos Aires Province following a series of political conflicts. The 1994 constitutional amendment granted the city greater autonomy, officially designating it as the Autonomous City of Buenos Aires. Since then, it has had an elected Chief of Government, though the mayor was previously appointed by the President of Argentina.
Geographically, Buenos Aires is characterized by its flat terrain, with the city rising gently from the Río de la Plata towards the surrounding areas. The climate is classified as humid subtropical, with hot, humid summers and mild, relatively dry winters.
Culturally, Buenos Aires is renowned for its eclectic European architecture, ranging from neoclassical to art deco and modernist styles. The city’s cultural life is equally rich, with numerous theaters, galleries, and music venues. Buenos Aires is home to a diverse population, largely due to waves of immigration from Europe and the Middle East in the 19th and 20th centuries. This melting pot has influenced the city’s culinary scene, languages, and festivals.
In terms of human resources, Buenos Aires is Argentina’s leading economic hub. The city is a powerhouse in finance, commerce, and industry. Major sectors include manufacturing, technology, and services. Buenos Aires contributes significantly to the national GDP and is known for its booming tech startups and robust industrial base.
The city has also made its mark in the world of sports and international events. Buenos Aires hosted the 1st FIBA World Championship in 1950 and again in 1990, as well as the 1st Pan American Games in 1951. It was a venue for the 1978 FIFA World Cup and the 1982 FIVB Men’s World Championship, and more recently, it hosted the 2018 Summer Youth Olympics and the 2018 G20 summit. The city’s ability to host large-scale events underscores its global importance and infrastructural capacity.
Overall, Buenos Aires is a city of dynamic contrasts—historically rich and culturally diverse, economically significant, and globally influential. Its blend of European charm, modern vitality, and historical depth makes it a standout metropolis in South America.
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