On this tour, we'll delve into the captivating world of “fileteado”, an artistic style that emerged in early 20th-century Buenos Aires. The term, rooted in the Latin prefix “filo” meaning “tread,” denotes an ornamental form that revolutionized the city's visual landscape. Now is recognized by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. More than just decoration, fileteado tells the story of the city itself.
Your journey begins at the historic corner of El Federal, one of Buenos Aires’ iconic Bares Notables, where the soul of the city seems to echo in every tile and every frame. In front of a hand-painted fileteado mural, your expert guide will introduce you to the essence of this uniquely Argentine art and its deep connection with porteño identity.
As you walk through the cobblestone streets of San Telmo—Buenos Aires’ oldest neighborhood—you’ll discover that this district is like an open-air museum. Ornate fileteado artwork embellishes street signs, storefronts, and walls, transforming the area into a colorful canvas.
Your path leads to the historic Church of San Pedro González Telmo, home to pieces by the great Martiniano Arce, and continues into the heart of the iconic Mercado de San Telmo, where tradition, flavor, and culture blend seamlessly.
And just when you think you’ve seen it all—now it’s your turn to paint it yourself.
Over a classic Buenos Aires-style merienda (a café or tea with two medialunas), you'll join a professional fileteador who will guide you through the techniques and secrets of this timeless craft. With paintbrush in hand, you’ll create your own masterpiece to take home—a souvenir as unique as the experience itself. Plus, you’ll receive a special certificate to commemorate your artistic adventure.