Viernes Santo

Today was Good Friday, so the city was wonderfully deserted. First we took the subway all the way to the presidential palace. Instead of the White House, Argentina has the Pink House.

After walking around the Plaza de Mayo and learning about the Madres/Abuelas de la Plaza de Mayo, we went to see a few nearby churches. First was a Franciscan cathedral one block from the Pink House. Evita's funeral was held here.

Because it was Good Friday, the church was full of people silently praying. As we left, we encountered a processional of normal churchgoers (not a fancy parade like they have in Spain) all responsively praying and singing on their way into the church for mass.
Two blocks away is a Jesuit church. This one is just as big, but not quite as well cared for. The best part was the street vendor outside selling caramelized almonds.

Just about 4 blocks to the north, along the May Avenue, is Buenos Aires' most classic and most famous cafe. Cafe Tortoni was the favorite spot for Borges, Carlos Gardel, and many other history-makers. Today it has tango and other shows, and serves great food and coffee for classy tourists like us.

After lunch we hopped back on the subway, and headed to Paza Italia and the city Botanical Gardens. It had gotten pretty hot out, so we skipped the city zoo, and instead had a little siesta time. The best part of the gardens were the dozens and dozens of abandonded domestic cats that were lounging in every corner.
In the early evening we walked to the mall (conveniently only 3 blocks away) and did a little souvenier shopping (watch out at Christmas ladies!!!) It started raining, so we had a simple dinner and called it an early evening.

Tomorrow we are taking the scenic Coastal Train to the Tigre river delta.