San Telmo Fair, Buenos Aires

San Telmo is one of the oldest districts in Buenos Aires. It was originally inhabited by the richest families in the city, who built wonderful architectural masterpieces as their homes. But in 1870 an outbreak of yellow fever forced them to seek residency elsewhere, and their mansions were converted into conventillos (boarding houses for the poor), with each one housing up to five families.

Nowadays you can still appreciate the beauty of this colonial-age architecture, and many of the buildings are now occupied by artists and craftsmen. In fact, it is the lively atmosphere and tango of San Telmo that attracts tourists from all over the world.

Sundays are usually the best time to discover the essence of this wonderful district, since the traditional Feria de las Antigüedades (Antiques Fair) will be taking place in Plaza Dorrego. This fair has been held every Sunday for more than 35 years.

The list of products on offer is endless. Music lovers can find records, gramophones, fonographs and record players. Lovers of antiques are in for a treat, for here you will also find, among many other things; lead soldiers, old stamps and coins, fans, toys, early-20th century glass and china, clocks, radios, mirrors, cameras and even perfume bottles.

Also worth mentioning are the many street artists that perform during the fair, among which include tango dancers, human statues and actors portraying immigrant families that have come to Argentina.

This fascinating district is without a doubt an exciting passage back in time.

(Photo by Juliana Piuma)

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