Palacio Barolo: A Dantean Journey in Buenos Aires

Palacio Barolo, located on Avenida de Mayo, is more than just a building; it's a journey through Dante Alighieri's Divine Comedy. Designed by Italian architect Mario Palanti and commissioned by Luis Barolo, a textile magnate, the Palacio Barolo was completed in 1923 and was the tallest building in South America for over a decade. Palanti, inspired by Dante's epic poem, divided the 22-story structure into three sections: Hell (basement to 4th floor), Purgatory (floors 5-14), and Heaven (floors 15-22), mirroring the poem's narrative.The building's height of 100 meters corresponds to the 100 cantos of the Divine Comedy, and the lighthouse at the top was designed to be visible from Montevideo, Uruguay. The Palacio Barolo is filled with symbolic details, including nine archways in the lobby representing the nine circles of hell. The building also incorporates Indian architectural influences, with the dome inspired by Hawa Mahal in Jaipur and the Rajarani Temple in Bhubaneswar.Guided tours are available in Spanish and English, offering visitors a chance to explore the building's architecture and learn about its hidden messages. The tours take visitors through the different sections, explaining the symbolism and history behind the design. The highlight is the panoramic view from the lighthouse, providing a 360-degree perspective of Buenos Aires. For a different experience, Salón 1923, a cocktail bar on the 16th floor, offers a way to enjoy the views with a drink.