Palermo Viejo: My Place in Buenos Aires

Abstract

I have studied my entire career and wrote more than half of my articles and stories in some of the cafes that line the Placita (the Little Square) within the Palermo area. It is the largest neighborhood in Buenos Aires, and a smaller part, Palermo Viejo (Old Palermo)—a micro environment of low buildings and cobbled streets designed by the architect Antonio Buschiazzo in the last decade—has become a cosmopolitan center. It might be said, arguably perhaps, that Julio Cortázar's Square is its heart, as it lies at the intersections of Serrano (from there onto Santa Fe Avenue is named Jorge Luis Borges) and Honduras Streets. Better known simply as La Placita, it is surrounded by bars and restaurants and has become in recent years an epicenter of young and lively Buenos Aires. It is also the place where, every year, the fires of St. John and numerous artistic and cultural events take place. On weekends from 11:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., open air plastic artistic activities organized by the Building Society of Palermo Viejo take place, inspiring a joyful atmosphere. Currently, Palermo Viejo has two smaller subareas, Palermo Soho and Palermo Hollywood; in one, you will find the best cuisine in Buenos Aires, whereas the other is the spot to stroll and stay, enjoying the finest boutique hotels. Palermo, with all its attractions, will not disappoint you from morning to night while you encounter the Buenos Aires of another era.