Once Shopping District

About the Once Shopping District

The Once Shopping District, often simply referred to as "Once," is one of Buenos Aires' most vibrant and bustling commercial areas. Located in the heart of the city, Once is renowned for its diverse range of shops, street vendors, and wholesale markets. The district has a rich cultural tapestry, reflecting the city’s multicultural heritage with a strong presence of Jewish, Korean, Chinese, and Middle Eastern communities, among others.

Once is a go-to destination for bargain hunters, business owners looking for wholesale goods, and anyone interested in experiencing the lively and chaotic energy of a traditional market district. The area is especially famous for its affordable clothing, textiles, electronics, and various imported goods, making it a central hub for both locals and visitors seeking great deals.

Features and Attractions

• Abasto Shopping Mall: Although technically just outside the Once district, Abasto Shopping is a key landmark for those exploring the area. This historic building, once the central wholesale fruit and vegetable market, has been transformed into a modern shopping center featuring international brands, a food court, a cinema, and even a children's museum.
• Street Markets and Vendors: The streets of Once are lined with stalls and shops selling everything from clothing and shoes to electronics and home goods. The Mercado de Once is particularly well-known, where you can find a wide range of textiles, fabrics, and accessories at competitive prices.
• Wholesale Markets: Once is the city’s wholesale district, with many stores catering to retailers looking to buy in bulk. This makes it an excellent place for those in the fashion or electronics business, or for anyone seeking to purchase goods at wholesale prices.
• Cultural Diversity: The area is a melting pot of cultures, and this diversity is reflected in the wide array of products available, including traditional Jewish foods, Korean supermarkets, and Middle Eastern textiles and spices. This multicultural environment also means that the district is home to numerous places of worship, including synagogues and mosques.
• Historic Architecture: While Once is primarily known for its shopping, the district also has some historic architecture. Many of the buildings in the area date back to the early 20th century, providing a glimpse into Buenos Aires' past. Notable landmarks include the imposing Once railway station and various historic synagogues.

Why Visit Once Shopping District?

Visiting the Once Shopping District offers a unique glimpse into the everyday life of Buenos Aires. It's a place where the city's diverse cultural influences come together in a lively, bustling atmosphere. Whether you're looking for great deals, interested in exploring the city's multicultural heritage, or just want to experience a different side of Buenos Aires, Once is a must-visit destination. The district offers an authentic shopping experience that contrasts sharply with the more upscale shopping areas of the city.

Did You Know?

• Name Origin: The district's name, "Once," comes from the nearby railway station, "Estación Once de Septiembre," named in honor of the September 11, 1852, revolution that led to Buenos Aires becoming an autonomous federal district.
• Jewish Heritage: Once is known as the historic heart of the Jewish community in Buenos Aires. The neighborhood is home to many Jewish businesses, synagogues, and cultural institutions, including the AMIA Jewish Community Center.
• Carlos Gardel's Legacy: The nearby Casa Carlos Gardel museum celebrates the life and work of the iconic tango singer. Gardel's influence on tango and Argentine culture is immeasurable, and the museum provides insight into his life in Buenos Aires.
• Transportation Hub: The district is one of the main transportation hubs in Buenos Aires, with numerous bus lines and the busy Once railway station making it easily accessible from other parts of the city.

Nearby Attractions

• Palacio de Aguas Corrientes: A short walk from Once, this stunning 19th-century palace was built as a waterworks and now houses the city’s water company. The building's elaborate facade is a striking example of ornate architecture.
• Teatro Ciego: Experience a show in complete darkness at this unique theater, located not far from Once. It's a one-of-a-kind sensory experience that you won't forget.
• Plaza Miserere: This large square in Once is a key transportation hub and a place where you can see the hustle and bustle of everyday life in the district.