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Congreso Nacional: Argentina's Seat of Power

Visit Argentina's National Congress in Buenos Aires for free tours, stunning architecture, and a glimpse into the country's political heart.

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The Congreso Nacional, or National Congress, is an architectural marvel in Buenos Aires, serving as the seat of Argentina's legislative branch. Modeled after the U.S. Capitol, its green dome and neoclassical design make it a prominent landmark. Free guided tours offer insights into Argentina's political history and the building's stunning interiors.

A brief summary to Congreso Nacional

  • Av. Hipólito Yrigoyen 1849, Buenos Aires, Balvanera, Comuna 3, Buenos Aires, C1033, AR
  • +54112822-3000

Local tips

  • Arrive 15 minutes early for tours and bring photo ID, such as a passport.
  • Tours are free and available in English and Spanish, but check the schedule in advance as they may be suspended due to parliamentary activities.
  • Note the stone statues by Lola Mora at the front; replicas have been returned to their original location after controversy.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    The Congreso Nacional is accessible via the Buenos Aires subway system (Subte). Take Line A and disembark at the Congreso station, which lets you out right at the Plaza del Congreso. Subway fares are around AR$757 for registered SUBE users. You can purchase and recharge a SUBE card at Subte stations. Alternatively, several bus lines (colectivos) such as 12, 37, 64, and 86, stop nearby. Bus fares start at AR$270.

  • Walking

    From the Obelisco, a major landmark in Buenos Aires, the Congreso Nacional is approximately a 20-30 minute walk. Head west along Avenida de Mayo; the Congress building will be at the far end of the avenue. The walk provides a direct route and a view of the city's architecture. No costs involved.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Cabify are readily available in Buenos Aires. A short taxi ride from downtown (e.g., Plaza de Mayo) to the Congreso Nacional typically costs between ARS 5,500 and ARS 11,000. Be sure the driver uses the meter, which has a base fare of ARS 657, plus ARS 67.50 per 200 meters. Prices may increase by 20% at night.

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Discover more about Congreso Nacional

The Palacio del Congreso Nacional, located in Buenos Aires, is where the Argentine National Congress carries out its activities. Construction of the building began in 1898 and it was formally inaugurated in 1906, though not fully completed until 1946. The design, owing to architect Vittorio Meano, showcases a neoclassical style with a bronze-plated dome reaching 80 meters high. After Meano's death, the project was taken over by Belgian architect Jules Dormal. The Congreso Nacional sits at the end of Avenida de Mayo, connecting it to the Casa Rosada, the seat of the executive branch, on Plaza de Mayo. The building occupies a city block bordered by Avenida Rivadavia, Avenida Entre Ríos, and the streets Combate de Los Pozos and Hipólito Yrigoyen. The building's exterior is largely limestone and adorned with sculptures, including those by Argentine sculptor Lola Mora. Inside, visitors can explore the chambers of both houses (Senate and Chamber of Deputies) and the library. Guided tours, offered in English and Spanish, provide a look into the legislative process and the building's art and architecture. The library notably features hand-carved walnut panels and a clock once owned by Louis XIV.

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