Lights turn on. Corrientes Avenue teems with people. It is a main artery of entertainment and culture in Buenos Aires.
Corrientes Avenue stretches 70 blocks. It runs from Puerto Madero to Chacarita. This avenue owes its name to the province of Corrientes. That city was the first to support Argentina’s independence.
Once, it was a narrow street. In 1931, widening work began and was completed by 1936. Despite its official name, many still call it “Corrientes Street”. The central section is immortalized in tango lyrics.
Corrientes is deeply connected with tango. It reflects the identity of the people of Buenos Aires. Numerous plaques honor tango legends. They are placed on street corners. About 40 in total.
In the 20th century, Corrientes became Buenos Aires’ nightlife hub. It is known as “the street that never sleeps”. The avenue is filled with theaters and cinemas. It boasts stunning Art Deco architecture from the ’30s and ’40s. Since the 1950s, intellectuals have frequented its many bookshops.
Corrientes is the bohemian memory of the 40s. It is also of the 60s and early 70s. Heated political and literary discussions took place in its cafes.
The marquees of theaters offer light. They bring life and color to the walk. Bookstores stay open late. Pizzerias stay open even later.
You will find art cinemas and magazine theaters. There are also stand-up shows of all kinds. The San Martín Theater is here. As is the Centro Cultural Rojas. Endless newspaper kiosks offer cultural magazines.
Carlos Gardel lived on Corrientes’ shore. The avenue witnessed the golden age of tango. Great orchestras and singers performed in its bars and theaters.
Luna Park sits at the far end of Corrientes. It is a symbol of mass sports and entertainment. It hosts boxing matches and concerts.
Many iconic pizzerias line Corrientes. Eating in them is an experience. Buenos Aires pizza has its own style. It features a large amount of cheese. The other ingredients are abundant too. Tomato sauce and ham are plentiful. Peppers and onions add flavor.
Buenos Aires has many bookstores per capita. Corrientes Avenue has a high concentration of them. They stay open long after dark.
Each year, “La Noche de las Librerías” takes place here. The stores stay open until dawn. They offer discounts. They organize talks and book presentations.
As you wander Corrientes you experience Buenos Aires. It is cultural and dynamic. It is a stage for art and life.