Buenos Aires

　　    In the early 16th century, Spanish exploration ships that had traveled from afar sailed into the mouth of the Río de la Plata. There, they were greeted by abundant sunshine, vast green fields, and fresh air. One crew member couldn't help but exclaim: “¡Buenos Aires!” (Spanish for “What fresh air!”). This exclamation later became the name of the city that was established here.

　　    Buenos Aires served as the center of Spanish colonial rule for nearly 300 years and was designated as the capital of Argentina upon the country’s independence in 1816. Today, Buenos Aires ranks among the world’s major metropolises, housing over 35% of the nation’s population, generating two-thirds of its industrial output, and accounting for nearly half of the national GDP. It is a highly Europeanized city—not only are almost all its residents descendants of European immigrants, but its urban layout, street scenes, and the lifestyle, customs, and cultural tastes of its people all reflect a distinctly European flair.

　　 Buenos Aires, Argentina