Buenos Aires is riddled with landmarks that testify of major historical events that shaped both Buenos Aires and Argentina. On this page, foreign visitors will find numerous landmarks that should not be missed once you visit the city
The Barolo Palace is the most significant and impressive building, located in the Monserat city block. The building was designed by architect Mario Palanti and its construction was requested by empresario Luis Barolo, who wanted the building to be built in Renaissance fashion, with details depicting scenes from Dante Alighieri’s Divine Comedy. This is the reason why the building is separated into three sections, depicting Heaven, Purgatory and Hell. The architect introduced motifs from Indian culture, so several details, such as the dome, resemble Indian sacred temples. The building was finished in 1923, and held the title of South America’s highest building for two years.
The Cabildo was once the center of Spanish colonial rule. It was originally constructed in 1580 out of abode and thatch, but the building which you can visit today was constructed in the 18th century, before the Argentine Revolution of 1810. After the revolution, the newly-independent people of Argentina used the building as a local government building during the first few years of their independence. The building was renovated in 1940, but the renovative work didn’t go against the original shape of the 18th century.
The Bookshop El Ateneo Grand Splendid is a bookstore located in the Recoleta city block, close to the Recoleta Graveyard. El Ateneo Grand Splendid was originally a theater that closed its doors for the public in 1919. Numerous operas, concerts and ballet performances were organized within its bounds. The Odeon National Publishing House used this building as their headquarters, and many singers recorded their songs in this establishment dedicated to culture.
The Dorrego Square or Plaza Dorrego is a historical hquare located in the San Telmo neighborhood. This neighborhood is very lively, as it is a popular bar and restaurant location. The square itself is not only known for the bustling atmosphere, but also for the antiques and art fair that is organized within its bounds. Several hundred sellers gather in the square to offer their antique items and artwork, some of which are very valuable. Some pieces of furniture sold there come from colonial castles, and paintings, musical instruments, jewelry and other interesting wares are also on sale there.
The Third of February Park, or Parque Tres de Febrero is among the most popular parks in Buenos Aires, but the Palermo section of the park is surely the most interesting, with its more than 8 thousand rose bushes. Palermo is surrounded by a lake and several hectares of beautiful greenery of the park. The rose garden is more than a century old, and it was awarded by the World Federation of Rose Societies. The park houses a bridge built in Greek style, an amphitheater, as well as the Poet’s Garden.
