Palacio Barolo: A Dantean Journey in Buenos Aires

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Explore Palacio Barolo, a Buenos Aires landmark inspired by Dante's Divine Comedy, offering architectural wonders and panoramic city views.

Palacio Barolo, an iconic office building in Buenos Aires, is an architectural marvel inspired by Dante Alighieri's Divine Comedy. Completed in 1923, it was South America's tallest building for over a decade and offers stunning city views from its rooftop lighthouse.

A brief summary to Palacio Barolo

Av. de Mayo 1370, Buenos Aires, Monserrat, Comuna 1, Buenos Aires, C1085, AR
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Monday 10 am-10 pm
Tuesday 9 am-10 pm
Wednesday 9 am-10 pm
Thursday 9 am-10 pm
Friday 9 am-10 pm
Saturday 10 am-11 pm
Sunday 10 am-9 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Palacio Barolo.

Book a guided tour in advance to fully appreciate the building's symbolism and access the rooftop lighthouse.
Wear comfortable shoes as the tour involves climbing stairs in narrow areas.
Consider the evening tour for a magical experience with wine tasting and sunset views.
Look for the subtle nods to Italian culture and the Divine Comedy throughout the building's design.

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Getting There

Public Transport

From Plaza de Mayo, take Subway Line A towards San Pedrito and get off at Sáenz Peña station. Palacio Barolo is a short 1-minute walk from the station. Alternatively, several bus lines (23, 39, 56, 60, 64, 86, 102, 105, 151, and 168) stop within close proximity. A single bus or subway fare costs approximately 25-28 ARS. Purchase a SUBE card at a local kiosk for easy payment on public transport.
Walking

From Plaza de Mayo, Palacio Barolo is approximately a 1.4 km walk. Head west on Avenida de Mayo, and you'll find the Palacio Barolo on your right at number 1370. The walk takes about 15 minutes.
Taxi/Ride-share

Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available in Buenos Aires. A short taxi ride from Plaza de Mayo to Palacio Barolo typically takes only a few minutes, but can take longer depending on traffic. The estimated cost is between 3400-4200 ARS. Be sure that the driver uses the meter, or agree on a price before you set off.

Discover more about Palacio Barolo

Palacio Barolo, located on Avenida de Mayo, is more than just a building; it's a symbolic journey through Dante Alighieri's Divine Comedy. Designed by Italian architect Mario Palanti and commissioned by textile magnate Luis Barolo, the palace was completed in 1923 and was the tallest building in South America until 1936. Barolo, an Italian immigrant, envisioned the skyscraper as a tribute to Italian culture and a potential sanctuary for Dante's ashes, believing Europe was on the brink of collapse.The building's architecture and dimensions are steeped in symbolism related to the Divine Comedy. Its 22 floors mirror the number of verses in each canto, and the building is divided into three sections: the basement and ground floor represent Hell, floors 1-14 represent Purgatory, and floors 15-22 symbolize Heaven. The building's height of 100 meters corresponds to the 100 cantos of the poem. The lobby features nine arches, representing the nine circles of Hell, adorned with grotesque dragons and alchemical symbols. The lighthouse at the top offers panoramic views of Buenos Aires, meant to represent God and Salvation.Today, Palacio Barolo houses offices, a Spanish language school, and a tango clothing store. Visitors can take guided tours to explore the building's intricate design, learn about its history, and enjoy the unparalleled views from the rooftop lighthouse. The evening tour often includes a wine tasting, adding a poetic touch to the experience.