Buenos Aires

Buenos Aires (pronunciation: /ˌbweɪnəs ˈɛəriːz/ or /-ˈaɪrɪs/; Spanish pronunciation: [ˈbwenos ˈajɾes]) is the capital and largest city of Argentina. The city is located on the western shore of the estuary of the Río de la Plata, on the southeastern coast of South America. Buenos Aires is a top tourist destination, and is known for its preserved Spanish/European-style architecture and rich cultural life.

Etymology

The name Buenos Aires, which means "Good Airs" in Spanish, was given by the city's founder, Pedro de Mendoza. The name is thought to have been inspired by the "Holy Virgin Mary of the Good Airs" who was said to have given Mendoza the good winds he needed to reach the Río de la Plata.

Related Terms

Argentina: The country in which Buenos Aires is located.
Río de la Plata: The river estuary on which Buenos Aires is situated.
Pedro de Mendoza: The founder of Buenos Aires.
Spanish/European-style architecture: The architectural style prevalent in Buenos Aires.