Quilmes, Argentina
Region: Buenos Aires
Geographic Coordinates: -34.716700, -58.266700
Temperature Range: 10.0°C to 30.0°C (50°F to 86°F)
Climate: Seasonal.
Population: 262379
Language: Spanish
Quilmes is a city located in the Buenos Aires Province of Argentina. It is situated on the banks of the Quilmes River, Which flows into the Rio de la Plata. The city has a population of around 600, 000 people and is known for its rich history, Vibrant culture, And beautiful landscapes. The name Quilmes comes from an indigenous tribe that once inhabited the area. The Quilmes people were known for their resistance against Spanish colonization in the 17th century. Today, Visitors can learn about their history at the Museo Histórico Regional Almirante Brown.
One of Quilmes’ most famous landmarks is Estadio Centenario Dr. José Luis Meiszner, Which is home to Club Atlético Quilmes – one of Argentina’s oldest football clubs. The stadium has a capacity of over 30, 000 and hosts some of Argentina’s most exciting football matches. Another popular attraction in Quilmes is Parque de la Ciudad – a large park with plenty of green spaces to relax or play sports in. Visitors can also enjoy various activities such as cycling or rollerblading along its many paths or take part in outdoor concerts and festivals.
For those interested in learning more about traditional Argentine cuisine, There are several restaurants throughout Quilmes that offer authentic dishes such as empanadas (a type of pastry filled with meat or vegetables), Choripán (a type of sausage sandwich), And asado (barbecue). In addition to its cultural offerings, Quilmes also boasts a thriving business district with numerous shops and boutiques selling everything from clothing to electronics. There are also several malls within easy reach where visitors can shop till they drop!
Overall, Whether you’re interested in history, Culture or just want to experience life like an Argentine local – there’s something for everyone here!
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Food and Beverage Industry:
- Quilmes is home to Cervecería y Maltería Quilmes, which is the largest brewery in Argentina.
- The city also has other food and beverage companies like PepsiCo and Nestle.
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Textile Industry:
- There are several textile factories in Quilmes that produce clothing, fabrics, and accessories.
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Chemical Industry:
- Many chemical companies located in Quilmes produce chemicals for various industries such as agriculture, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics.
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Construction Industry:
- Due to a growing population and increasing demand for housing, the construction industry is thriving in Quilmes.
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Retail Industry:
- The city has numerous shopping centers offering a wide range of products from local to international brands.
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Service Sector:
- Banks, insurance companies, healthcare providers operate within the city limits making up a significant portion of its economy.
Overall these industries offer employment opportunities for residents while contributing positively towards the growth of local businesses as well as attracting foreign investment into the region’s economy.
- The establishment of the Quilmes Brewery in 1888, which became one of the largest breweries in Argentina.
- The Battle of Quilmes in 1813, during the Argentine War of Independence, where General Manuel Belgrano defeated Spanish forces.
- The construction of the Quilmes Bridge in 1978, which connects Buenos Aires to La Plata and is one of the longest bridges in South America.
- The birthplace and childhood home of Argentine football legend Diego Maradona, who grew up in a villa misería (slum) on the outskirts of Quilmes.
- The presence of several important cultural institutions such as Teatro Municipal de Quilmes (Quilmes Municipal Theater), Museo Histórico Regional Almirante Brown (Admiral Brown Regional Historical Museum), and Centro Cultural Isla de los Inventos (Island of Inventions Cultural Center).
- Notable people from or associated with Quilmes include writer Jorge Luis Borges, musician Charly García, actor Ricardo Darín, and footballer Carlos Tevez among others.
Even more interesting!
The Quilmes tribe was a native indigenous group that inhabited the region surrounding Tucumán, in what is now modern-day Argentina. They had a rich and distinct culture that flourished in the area for centuries before the arrival of the Spanish invaders in the 17th century.
The Quilmes people were known for their resilience and determination to defend their lands against the Spanish. The Spanish attempts to control their territory were met with resistance, but ultimately, the Quilmes were defeated after a series of conflicts. As a result, they were forced to relocate to a restricted colony, known as a reducción, near Buenos Aires. This relocation took place in 1666 and marked a significant turning point in the Quilmes’ history.
The journey from their ancestral lands in Tucumán to the new colony near Buenos Aires was arduous and treacherous, spanning over 1,000 kilometers (621 miles). The Quilmes were compelled to make this journey on foot, which resulted in the loss of hundreds of lives due to the challenging conditions and hardships they faced along the way. Despite these trials, they persevered and established the colony of Exaltación de la Santa Cruz de los Kilme.
However, over time, the Quilmes colony faced various challenges, and by the early 19th century, it had become an abandoned ghost town. The land once occupied by the Quilmes was eventually divided into parcels, and in 1818, the town of Quilmes was established in its place.
During the period of British invasions in Argentina, which included the British occupation of Buenos Aires in 1806, the British forces made their way through Quilmes after arriving from Montevideo. Quilmes served as a significant route for their advancement towards Buenos Aires during the invasion.
In addition to the indigenous Quilmes population, the town of Quilmes also became home to British immigrants. One notable figure was Juan Clark, who hailed from Yorkshire, England and became the president of the municipality in 1855. The Clark family, known for owning land in Quilmes, had strong connections to the Irish and Scottish communities that had settled in the area since the 1830s.
The development of Quilmes experienced a significant boost during the late 19th century, fueled by the wave of immigration that swept across Argentina. At one point, Quilmes was even considered as a potential location for a new provincial capital during the Federalization of Buenos Aires in 1880. However, the ultimate decision was made to establish the new capital in La Plata instead.
In more recent history, Quilmes became home to institutions such as the St. George’s College, a prestigious private educational institution founded in 1898 by Reverend Joseph Thomas Stevenson.
Today, Quilmes is known for its cultural heritage, diverse population, and notable landmarks. The city is also associated with the renowned Cerveza Quilmes beer company, which was first brewed there in 1888. Additionally, Quilmes has significant manufacturing industries, including textile production, glass manufacturing, construction materials, and climate control equipment.
Throughout the years, Quilmes has produced notable figures in various fields. Among them are television host Susana Giménez, football forward Sergio Agüero, painter Carlos Morel, sculptor Victor de Pol, boxer Sergio Martínez, and the rock band Vox Dei. Aníbal Fernández, who was born in Quilmes, has also played a prominent role in Argentine politics, serving as mayor and holding various ministerial positions.
- Museo Histórico Regional Almirante Brown: This museum showcases the history and culture of Quilmes and its surrounding areas.
- Casa de la Cultura: This cultural center hosts art exhibitions, concerts, theater performances, and other cultural events.
- Monumento a la Madre: A beautiful monument dedicated to mothers located in the heart of Quilmes.
- Catedral de Quilmes: A stunning cathedral with beautiful architecture that is worth visiting for its historical significance as well as its religious importance.
- Parque de la Ciudad: A large park with plenty of green spaces, walking trails, and recreational activities for families and friends to enjoy.
- Teatro Municipal de Quilmes: This theater hosts a variety of shows ranging from plays to musical performances throughout the year.
- Museo del Transporte Carlos Hillner: A museum dedicated to transportation history that features vintage cars, motorcycles, bicycles, trains and airplanes among other modes of transport.
- Plaza San Martin: The main square in downtown Quilmes where locals gather for events or just relax on benches under shady trees during hot summer days.
- Museo Fotográfico Simik: This museum displays photographs from different periods which show how life was like in Argentina during those times.
- Centro Cultural El Telégrafo: An old building that has been converted into a cultural center where visitors can enjoy art exhibitions, workshops or concerts among other activities offered by local artists and performers.
- Quilmes Atlético Club (QAC): QAC is a football club founded in 1887, making it one of the oldest clubs in Argentina. The team has played in the top tier of Argentine football for many years and won its first major trophy, the Copa de Honor Municipalidad de Buenos Aires, in 1912.
- Club Atlético Argentino de Quilmes: This football club was established in 1899 and has also played at the top tier of Argentine football. The team’s most successful period came during the 1920s when it won two Primera División titles.
- Club Atlético Bernal: Bernal is a neighborhood within Quilmes, and this football club was founded there in 1906. Although they have mostly played at lower levels of Argentine football, they did have a brief stint in the second division during the 1940s.
- Club Atlético Defensores de Cambaceres: This soccer club was established in 1917 and plays its home matches at Estadio Saturnino Moure located within Quilmes’ borders. The team currently competes at lower levels of Argentine soccer.
- Asociación Deportiva Berazategui: Although not technically located within Quilmes’ borders, Berazategui is a neighboring city that shares many cultural ties with Quilmes residents. This multi-sport club was founded back on 1945 and currently fields teams across several sports such as basketball, volleyball, handball, futsal as well as soccer where they compete at lower levels of Argentine Football Pyramid.
- Fiesta Nacional del Alfajor: This festival is dedicated to celebrating the traditional Argentine sweet treat, alfajores.
- Festival de la Cerveza Artesanal Quilmes: This craft beer festival showcases local and regional breweries offering a variety of unique brews.
- Feria del Libro Quilmes: An annual book fair that brings together authors, publishers, and book enthusiasts for a week-long celebration of literature.
- Carnaval de Quilmes: A lively carnival celebration featuring parades, music, dancing, and colorful costumes that take over the streets.
- Festival Internacional de Cine y Video Independiente de Quilmes (FICVIQ): An independent film festival showcasing films from around the world with an emphasis on promoting independent filmmakers.
- Fiesta Patronal Nuestra Señora de la Merced: A religious celebration honoring the patron saint of Quilmes with processions and masses held throughout the city.
- Expo Agroindustrial y Comercial de Quilmes: This agricultural fair features local produce markets along with livestock exhibitions and machinery displays for visitors to explore.
- Encuentro Cultural Latinoamericano en el Parque Cervecero: A cultural event celebrating Latin American music, dance, food, and art held in the city’s park area where visitors can also enjoy brewery tours while sipping on some fresh brews!
- Asado: Grilled meat, usually beef, is a staple in Argentine cuisine and can be found at many restaurants in Quilmes.
- Empanadas: These savory pastries are filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables and can be found at many street vendors or bakeries.
- Milanesa: Breaded and fried meat cutlets that are typically served with mashed potatoes or fries.
- Parrilla La Estancia: This traditional Argentine steakhouse is known for its delicious grilled meats and cozy atmosphere.
- El Viejo Almacen de Don Felipe: A popular restaurant that serves classic Argentine dishes such as empanadas, milanesa, and asado.
- La Esquina de las Flores: A charming cafe that serves coffee, pastries, sandwiches, and other light fare in a cozy setting.
- El Granero del Sur: This bakery offers a variety of freshly baked breads, pastries, cakes, and other sweet treats.
- Sabor Peruano: A Peruvian restaurant that serves traditional dishes such as ceviche and lomo saltado alongside Argentine favorites like steak and empanadas.
- Parque de la Ciudad is the largest park in Quilmes and provides numerous recreational activities such as hiking, biking, picnicking, and sports fields.
- Parque de la Ribera is situated along the Rio de la Plata riverbank and offers stunning views of the water with walking trails, playgrounds, and picnic areas.
- Plaza San Martin is a historical plaza located in downtown Quilmes that serves as a popular gathering spot for locals. It features a statue of General San Martin along with fountains and gardens.
- Complejo Deportivo Municipal consists of various sports facilities including soccer fields, basketball courts, tennis courts, swimming pools, and a gym.
- Club Nautico Quilmes caters to water enthusiasts by providing sailing lessons and boat rentals on the Rio de la Plata.
- Paseo del Bosquecito is an ideal park for families with young children as it has playgrounds and green spaces perfect for picnics or relaxation.
- Reserva Natural Municipal Laguna de Rocha can be found just outside of Quilmes in Berazategui where visitors can explore hiking trails through wetlands to observe local wildlife such as birds and turtles.
