Congreso & Tribunales - Buenos Aires - page 157

Neighborhood Top Five
Touring the backstage corners of the gorgeous Teatro Colón , or perhaps taking in a
play or concert there later in the evening.
Strolling down Av de Mayo to the stately buildings around Plaza del Congreso .
Getting the history of the unique and stunning, Dante-inspired building that is Palacio
Barolo .
Standing at the base of Buenos Aires' iconic symbol, the Obelisco .
Visiting the toilets and bidets at the bizarre little museum in Palacio de las Aguas
Corrientes .
Explore: Congreso & Tribunales
Plaza del Congreso is at the heart of this neighborhood and an easy walk from Plaza de
Mayo (in the Center) along the important thoroughfare Av de Mayo. This avenue connects
the city's two most significant political centers and is itself lined with beautiful buildings,
so be sure to take a stroll along it.
To do this, however, you'll have to experience crossing Av 9 de Julio ( Click here ),
which is 'the widest street in the world!' as proud porteños love to boast. This may be
true, as it's 16 lanes at its widest; nearby side streets Cerrito and Pellegrini make it look
even broader. Fortunately, traffic islands provide raised breaks for the thousands of pedes-
trians who cross this monstrosity every day, but it's still an intimidating barrier (and can't
be done in one green light without breaking into a run - trust us).
Once you've explored the Plaza de Congreso area, head up to Av Corrientes and have a
look around - it's the city's traditional old theater district, but there's still plenty of action
going around. Further north is Plaza Lavalle, home to its own important cluster of build-
ings, including one of the principal gems of the city, Teatro Colón. Just a couple blocks
from here is the Obelisco, Buenos Aires' key landmark, with a small plaza near the base.