During my semester studying abroad in Buenos Aires, Argentina, I came to learn that the city has a very vibrant cultural landscape, where centuries of old traditions mesh with modern expressions of identity. This photo set explores how culture manifests itself in the urban environment and how it shapes the daily lives of the people who call this city home.  

Exploring the neighborhood Recoleta 

La Bomba de Tiempo Drumshow

I like to describe Buenos Aires to other people as a city with European-influenced architecture and Latin American spirit, which is seen through its music, art, and residents. The people are so welcoming, and the vibes are very Euro. 

Mercado San Telmo, Rich in Cultural Significance 

Sunset Apartment View  

My pictures capture the character of the city seen in the streets, parks, neighborhoods, structures and markets. From tango dancers on the cobblestone streets of San Telmo to the colorful murals in La Boca, Buenos Aires reveals itself as a city where cultural expression is woven into the fabric of everyday life. 

Street Art in Historic San Telmo 

Something I noticed within days of arriving was the relationship between people and place and how culture is embodied in both personal identity and cultural identity. Like many other cities, a diverse cultural background is represented in Buenos Aires. The population reflects European immigrants, native Argentinians and nomads passing through. In my 5 months there, I was able to see this firsthand and understand that the city is constantly evolving as times change. 

Obelisco Monument 

El Caminito in La Boca 

Art and creativity play a huge role in everyday life. I experienced this in meeting several DJ’s, artists, and entrepreneurs. The streets are an open canvas for political expression through murals and graffiti. I also visited many galleries and museums which showcased the historical side of the Argentine culture. 

Pure Beauty Parque Nacional Torres Del Paine in Patagonia 

Food and time spent at the table with loved ones is a vital aspect of the culture. Traditional parrillas (steakhouses), empanadas, mate and café culture are ingrained in the daily life of anyone who finds themself in the city. It truly became a ritual for me to enjoy a daily merienda along with the staple drink called mate.  

Afternoon Mate in the Paseo El Rosedal Garden 

Legend from Day One, Lionel Messi 

Each photo in this blog reflects an aspect of my own journey in Buenos Aires. Although this magnificent city cannot be expressed with just a handful of pictures, I believe this blog showcases the complexities of Argentine culture and how that can influence a visitor like me. 

Buenos Aires is truly a combination of how culture shapes the lives of its people, both in their personal lives and in their shared experiences. The place and the people are not afraid of influence and yet, they are very proud of who they are without any. These photos are not just about the place, they are about the connections that bind us together through the universal language of culture.