Background

Palacio San Martin: A Glimpse into Argentina's Diplomatic Past

Explore Buenos Aires' Palacio San Martin, a Beaux-Arts masterpiece and ceremonial heart of Argentina's foreign relations.

4.6

Palacio San Martin, a stunning Beaux-Arts palace in Buenos Aires, once served as the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Today, it's a ceremonial headquarters showcasing 20th-century Argentine and Latin American art and pre-Columbian artifacts.

A brief summary to Palacio San Martin

  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Check the official website or call ahead to confirm tour availability, as they may be suspended due to official events.
  • Tours are free but reservations are required. Contact visitaspsm@mrecic.gov.ar to book a tour.
  • Visit Plaza San Martin across the street for a relaxing stroll and to admire the surrounding architecture.
  • Allow at least 1 hour for the guided tour to fully appreciate the palace's history and art collections.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From most central locations in Buenos Aires, take the Subte (subway) Line C to Retiro station. From there, it's a short walk across Plaza San Martin to Arenales 761. A SUBE card is required for public transport; the fare is approximately AR$757. Alternatively, the suburban train to Retiro station is also an option, costing AR$130.

  • Walking

    If you are already near Plaza San Martin, simply walk to the opposite side of the plaza. The Palacio San Martin is located on Arenales 761. Walking from the Obelisco takes approximately 25 minutes.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Cabify are readily available in Buenos Aires. A short taxi ride from the city center (e.g., Plaza de Mayo) to Palacio San Martin will cost approximately ARS 5,500 - ARS 11,000, depending on traffic and time of day.

Unlock the Best of Palacio San Martin

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Palacio San Martin

Palacio San Martin, located in the Retiro neighborhood of Buenos Aires, stands as a testament to Argentina's rich history and architectural grandeur. Originally built as the Anchorena Palace between 1905 and 1909, it was commissioned by Mercedes Castellanos de Anchorena and designed by architect Alejandro Christophersen. The palace exemplifies the Beaux-Arts style, reflecting the strong French influence prevalent in Buenos Aires at the turn of the 20th century. The palace is not a single structure but a complex of three independent residences connected by a central hall. This unique design catered to the Anchorena family, one of the most powerful in Argentina at the time. In 1936, the Argentine government acquired the palace and renamed it Palacio San Martin, designating it as the headquarters of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. While the Ministry's offices have since moved to a modern building nearby, the Palacio San Martin remains the ceremonial headquarters, hosting important diplomatic events and showcasing Argentina's cultural heritage. Visitors can explore the palace's opulent interiors, which feature works by renowned Argentine and Latin American artists such as Antonio Berni, Pablo Curatella Manes, and Roberto Matta. The palace also houses a collection of pre-Columbian art, offering insights into the indigenous cultures of northwest Argentina. The library boasts a specialized collection of books on international law and the history of international relations. Guided tours, available in Spanish and sometimes English, provide a deeper understanding of the palace's history and significance. The palace is located across from Plaza San Martin, a historic square with monuments and diverse trees.

Popular Experiences near Palacio San Martin

Popular Hotels near Palacio San Martin

Select Currency