Cemento

Cemento Buenos Aires: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Guide to Historical Sites

Date: 07/04/2025

Introduction

Cemento, the legendary Buenos Aires nightclub, stands as a symbol of Argentina’s underground music scene and cultural resilience. Founded in 1985 by Omar Chabán, Cemento played a defining role during Argentina’s transition to democracy, serving as a sanctuary for creative expression, alternative rock, and avant-garde performance art. Although the venue closed in 2004, its legacy continues to shape the city’s musical and cultural landscape (La Nación; Wikiwand: Cemento).

This comprehensive guide explores Cemento’s remarkable history, cultural impact, practical visitor information, and its influence on contemporary Buenos Aires nightlife.

Introduction
Origins and Founding of Cemento
Role in Democratic and Cultural Transformation
Cemento and the Buenos Aires Underground Scene
- The “Rock Under” Movement
- Artistic Experimentation and Theater
Notable Events and Milestones
The República Cromañón Tragedy and Closure
Legacy and Transformation
Visiting Cemento Today: Practical Information
Nearby Attractions
Safety and Accessibility
FAQ
Conclusion
Sources

Origins and Founding of Cemento

Cemento was established in 1985 at Estados Unidos 1234 in San Telmo. Visionary founder Omar Chabán—already known for Café Einstein—envisioned a multipurpose venue embracing nightclub energy, concert hall dynamics, and experimental theater. The space’s raw, warehouse-like architecture and unfinished concrete walls reflected its DIY ethos and offered a stark alternative to the city’s commercial clubs, aligning perfectly with Buenos Aires’ burgeoning underground movement (La Nación).

Role in Democratic and Cultural Transformation

Cemento opened as Argentina emerged from dictatorship. It became a hub for artists, musicians, and youth eager to embrace newfound freedom of expression. The venue’s eclectic programming included punk, rock, theater, and avant-garde performance, attracting those seeking spaces outside mainstream culture (La Nación; Buenos Aires Nightlife Culture).

Cemento and the Buenos Aires Underground Scene

The “Rock Under” Movement

Cemento is widely regarded as the cradle of Argentina’s “rock under” (underground rock) scene. Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, it launched and nurtured iconic bands such as Patricio Rey y sus Redonditos de Ricota, Sumo, Los Violadores, and Los Fabulosos Cadillacs. For many artists, performing at Cemento was a rite of passage, and the venue’s rough acoustics and unpredictable atmosphere became an integral part of its mythos (Wikiwand: Cemento).

Artistic Experimentation and Theater

In addition to music, Cemento fostered experimental theater and avant-garde performance. Groups like La Organización Negra, co-founded by Pichón Baldinu, staged groundbreaking productions blending urban themes with punk aesthetics. This multidisciplinary spirit positioned Cemento as a focal point for creative innovation in Buenos Aires (Pichón Baldinu).

Notable Events and Milestones

Cemento hosted legendary concerts and performances that have become part of Argentine rock folklore. Marathon shows often stretched into the early hours, contributing to the venue’s reputation for endless nights and creative chaos. Despite the venue’s challenges—leaky roofs, power outages, and minimal amenities—musicians and fans embraced its imperfections, cementing its status as a bastion of resilience and creative freedom (La Nación).

The República Cromañón Tragedy and Closure

On December 30, 2004, a tragic fire at the República Cromañón nightclub—also owned by Omar Chabán—claimed 194 lives and led to the closure of venues with unsafe conditions. Cemento, already under scrutiny for safety issues, was forced to shut down permanently. This marked the end of an era, as the city moved toward stricter regulations and new, more modern venues (Wikiwand: Cemento).

Legacy and Transformation

After its closure, the Cemento building was repurposed by the Buenos Aires city government. While its original function as a cultural hub ended, Cemento’s influence endures in Argentina’s music and nightlife culture. It is commemorated through plaques, exhibitions, documentaries, and is often referenced as a “temple” of Argentine rock (La Nación).

Contemporary venues such as Niceto Club, La Trastienda, and Vorterix continue its legacy by nurturing emerging talent and musical diversity (Baires Secreta; Wanderlust Spanish).

Visiting Cemento Today: Practical Information

Is Cemento Open?

Cemento is permanently closed. There are no regular visiting hours, ticketed events, or official tours. The building can be viewed from the exterior at Estados Unidos 1234 (San Telmo/Constitución/Monserrat area). Access to the interior is restricted.

Commemorative Features

A commemorative plaque installed in 2016 marks Cemento’s cultural importance and is visible from the street.

Special Events and Exhibitions

Occasional exhibitions and commemorative events are held at alternative venues. Recent examples include the “Cemento: del under al indie, 1985-2016” photographic exhibit and the documentary “Cemento - El Documental.” Updates on such events can be found via Cemento Radio and Buenos Aires cultural listings.

Guided Tours

While no official tour is dedicated exclusively to Cemento, some city tours focused on music history may include the site as a point of interest.

Nearby Attractions

San Telmo Market: Antiques, food, and tango shows.
Plaza Dorrego: Historic square, popular for street performances.
National Museum of Fine Arts and Teatro Colón: For a deeper dive into Buenos Aires’ artistic legacy.
Museo del Rock Argentino: Explore Argentina’s rock history in Palermo.

Safety and Accessibility

Neighborhood: Constitución/Monserrat is urban and lively. Daytime visits are safest; remain alert and avoid displaying valuables.
Transport: Reachable via Subte lines C and E, and various bus lines. Consider using taxis or ride-sharing after dark.
Accessibility: The neighborhood is generally flat, but sidewalks may be uneven. For accessibility info, see Journeyable.

FAQ

Is Cemento open to visitors?
No, Cemento is closed; only the exterior and commemorative plaque are accessible at any time.

Are there official guided tours?
No, but some music-themed city tours may include the site.

Do I need tickets to visit?
No tickets or admission are required to view the exterior.

How can I learn more about Cemento?
Listen to Cemento Radio, visit exhibitions, or read works such as “Cemento: El semillero del rock” by Nicolás Igarzábal.

What other music venues carry Cemento’s legacy?
Niceto Club, La Trastienda, and Vorterix are among the venues inspired by Cemento’s ethos (Baires Secreta).

Conclusion

Cemento’s spirit continues to shape Buenos Aires’ music and cultural scene, despite its closure. For those passionate about music and history, the site offers a symbolic connection to the city’s rebellious artistic heritage. Engage with Cemento’s legacy through commemorative sites, local music venues, and online platforms. For the most current cultural updates and music scene news, download the Audiala app and follow relevant social media channels.