La Manzana de las Luces, Buenos Aires : Interesting Facts, Information & Travel Guide

Welcome to the blog post on La Manzana de las Luces, Buenos Aires, the iconic corner of the city and a fascinating exploration of its interesting history and culture. Located in the center of the city, this ‘square of lights’ has been around since the city’s Spanish foundation in 1580 and today plays host to a variety of interesting buildings, monuments, and artifacts from the past. With its dramatic and diverse architecture, La Manzana de las Luces is the perfect place to explore Argentinian history. In this blog, you’ll find a guide to the attractions, sightseeing, and cultural experiences that you can find in the area. We’ll also dive into the secrets behind the square’s fascinating name and provide a range of facts and interesting information that’ll help you gain an insight into the rich history of this area. So let’s get started!

Interesting Facts About La Manzana de las Luces, Buenos Aires

1. La Manzana de las Luces was once known as the ‘theater quarter’ due to its heavy concentration of theatrical activities in the eighteenth century.

2. The name ‘La Manzana de las Luces’ was inspired by the many lanterns that were hung in the street to attract theatergoers.

3. The infamous philosopher Jean-Jacques Rousseau lived in this area from 1767 to 1768.

4. The large number of printing shops in the area during the 18th and 19th century earned the area the nickname of ‘the city of newspapers’.

5. This area was also home to the first municipal library in Buenos Aires, which was founded in 1801.

6. Before becoming a popular tourist attraction, La Manzana de las Luces was a heavily industrial area in the mid-1800s, producing pottery and other goods.

7. The city attracted many immigrants, with China Town forming in the area in the 1930s and 40s.

8. The area was also known for its vibrant Argentine Tango scene throughout the 20th century.

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History & Information About La Manzana de las Luces, Buenos Aires

La Manzana de las Luces (The Block of Lights) is a historical neighborhood in the San Telmo district of Buenos Aires, Argentina. It was among the first areas of Buenos Aires to be urbanized in the late 18th century. The Manzana de las Luces encompasses the original Plaza Lorea and is the site of many notable historical monuments and landmarks.

The Manzana de las Luces is located at the corner of Perú and Defensa streets in San Telmo. It has been referred to as the ‘cradle of the city’, because it was once home to some of the earliest structures of colonial Buenos Aires. During the colonial period, the Manzana de las Luces was home to the first printing press, school, bookstore, hospital, theatre, and city hall of Buenos Aires. The area was also the site of several important historical events, such as the overthrow of colonial Spanish rules in the 1810 May Revolution and the first National Constitution drafted in 1853.

At the center of the Manzana de las Luces is the Plaza Lorea, one of the oldest public squares in Buenos Aires. It was originally known as the Plaza de San Francisco de Paula and was built in 1790. The plaza is home to two 18th century buildings: the Catedral de San Francisco de Asís (1790-1801) and the former Jesuit Colegio de San Ignacio (1742). Both of the buildings are now open to the public as museums.

Other notable landmarks located in the Manzana de las Luces include the old San Ignacio Church, the Congreso Nacional building, the old Real Audiencia, and the old Customs House. The area is also the site of the 1810 Cabildo de Buenos Aires, the site of the first meeting of the Primera Junta.

The Manzana de las Luces is now a popular tourist destination for those looking to experience some of the history and architecture of central Buenos Aires. Visitors can explore the many sites and monuments of the neighborhood, including its churches, museums, and public squares. They can also sample the local gastronomy at the many restaurants and cafes in the area.

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Travel Guide For Visiting La Manzana de las Luces, Buenos Aires

1. Where to Stay

The city of La Manzana de las Luces in Buenos Aires, Argentina is a cultural gem rich in colonial-era architecture, cultural history, and beautiful Spanish squares. There are plenty of accommodations available depending on what you’re looking for in your stay. If you’re looking for a great central location that is both hip and budget-friendly, try out the Hotel Zentra or Hostel Zentra in the San Telmo district. For a more luxurious stay, you can try the Lastarria Boutique Hotel in the Montserrat district or NH Collection Tower hotel near the city center.

2. Where to Eat

When visiting La Manzana de las Luces, Buenos Aires you can find amazing restaurants and traditional food stands scattered throughout the city. El Desnivel is a top traditional restaurant with live tango performances and an amazing tapas menu. Los Galgos is the perfect spot for traditional Argentine steak. For a great late-night meal, grab some empanadas and a drink at La Americana.

3. What to Do

La Manzana de las Luces is a great city for both history and culture buffs. The Manzana de las Luces is an illuminated Jesuit landmark at the intersection of Bolivia and Mexico streets and features a beautiful 18th-century church. The National Historical Museum of Buenos Aires also provides visitors with a look into the city’s past and cultural influences. Other attractions include the National Museum of Decorative Arts, the Plaza de Mayo, and the Teatro Colón, an opera house boasting beautiful architecture and an outstanding program of performances. The San Telmo district is also a vibrant spot for people looking for art galleries, vintage stores, restaurants, and nightlife.

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Frequently Asked Questions About La Manzana de las Luces, Buenos Aires

Q1. Where is La Manzana de las Luces located?

A1. La Manzana de las Luces is located in the heart of downtown Buenos Aires. It is bounded by Peru, Chile, Mexico, and Lavalle streets.

Q2. What is La Manzana de las Luces?

A2. La Manzana de las Luces (The Block of Lights) is a historic block in downtown Buenos Aires that is filled with numerous monuments, colonial-style buildings, and churches. Its nickname is derived from its original street lamps and is located in the center of the city.

Q3. What is there to do at La Manzana de las Luces?

A3. La Manzana de las Luces is home to a wide variety of attractions, including the Manzana Jesuítica (Jesuit Block), the Church of San Ignacio, and the National Historical Monument. Visitors can also explore notable museums such as the National Historical Museum, the Latin American Art Museum, and the Alvear Art Museum.

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