Recoleta (BA Day 5)

Recoleta is perched on one of the highest hills in Buenos Aires and was the perfect look out for bandits and pirates. 400 years ago, during the centennial celebration, the Spaniard that owned this area was in need of a suit for the event. It was difficult to find one in those days; in fact there was a severe shortage of clothing. The man traded this entire area for a suit. Before 1871 in Buenos Aires history, many of the well to do citizens lived in San Telmo (which we visited on Saturday). But due to a severe yellow fever epidemic, the upper society was forced to abandon their homes and neighborhoods and seek a safer environment. Recoleta was the perfect location. Argentina was one of the richest nations in the early 1900’s and Recoleta became one of the wealthiest neighborhoods. The most affluent people of the time designed enormous mansions here and socialized along Alvear Ave. The famous Jockey Club became the center for political activity and later would be crucial for Argentina history and critics of Eva Peron. When the automobile was introduced, Recoleta was the first neighborhood to have them. On the weekends there were car races near the cemetery and great social events, which spawned many outdoor cafes and restaurants along Ortiz Ave. One of the oldest is Café Beila, which is still there today (where we were in our cafe con leche y 3 medialunas post).

This is the wall around the cemetery. As someone else put it - ironically, the most life in Recoleta is around the cemetery.

part of Recoleta Village - the area around Ortiz Ave. near the cemetery

some of the beautiful buildings in Recoleta

Sutton tired of walking & protesting

Resting & getting flowers for Mommy & the apartment (at one of the several flower stands) as I was across the street getting some more pictures

Kerrigan gets the Best Baby award. She is so amazing - just goes with the flow. She's adjusting to the backpack. The stroller was much better for her, but she's being a trooper.