Avenida Corrientes, Buenos Aires

Corrientes Avenue (Avenida Corrientes) holds significant importance as one of the major thoroughfares in Buenos Aires. Stretching across 69 blocks, the avenue derives its name from one of the provinces of Argentina. Over the centuries, it has undergone various name changes, initially known as Del Sol during the 17th century, then San Nicolás from 1738 to 1808, and De Incháurregui from 1808 until 1822, before finally adopting its present name.

The term "Narrow Corrientes" (Corrientes Angosta) refers to the avenue before its 1930s widening. In 1936, it coincided with the construction of the Buenos Aires Obelisk. Despite being called "Corrientes Avenue," many still prefer "Corrientes Street," especially in its famous central section, immortalized in tango lyrics.

The street's history is deeply intertwined with the tango and the identity of porteños, the people of the port city. This connection is evident in the numerous commemorative plaques, around 40 in total, honoring significant figures from the history of tango placed on street corners.

In the 20th century, Corrientes Street became Buenos Aires' lively nightlife hub, known as "the street that never sleeps." It's filled with theaters, cinemas, and stunning Art Deco architecture from the '30s and '40s. Since the 1950s, it's been a favorite spot for intellectuals due to its numerous bookshops. The famous pizza parlors and restaurants make it the go-to urban weekend entertainment for generations of porteños.

At the far end of Corrientes, the Luna Park remains a symbol of mass sports and entertainment events, hosting boxing matches and concerts, among other attractions.