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Palacio Barolo: A Dantean Journey in Buenos Aires

Explore Buenos Aires' architectural marvel, Palacio Barolo, inspired by Dante's Divine Comedy, offering history, art, and panoramic city views.

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Palacio Barolo, an architectural gem on Avenida de Mayo, Buenos Aires, is inspired by Dante Alighieri's Divine Comedy. Completed in 1923, this historic building, once the tallest in South America, offers guided tours through its symbolic representation of Hell, Purgatory, and Heaven, culminating in panoramic city views from its iconic lighthouse.

A brief summary to Palacio Barolo

  • Av. de Mayo 1370, Buenos Aires, Monserrat, Comuna 1, Buenos Aires, C1085, AR
  • +54113221-1331

Local tips

  • Book tours in advance, especially for evening visits, to secure a spot and preferred language.
  • Wear comfortable shoes as the tour involves climbing stairs to reach the lighthouse.
  • Arrive 15 minutes early to check in at the ticket booth before the tour begins.
  • Check the official website for tour schedules, prices, and themed tour options.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    To reach Palacio Barolo via public transport, take the Subte (Metro) Line A to Sáenz Peña station, which is a 1-minute walk to the building. Alternatively, several bus lines (23, 39, 56, 60, 64, 86, 102, 105, 151, and 168) stop within close proximity to Palacio Barolo. A single fare on the Subte or bus costs approximately 30 ARS, and requires a SUBE card.

  • Walking

    From Plaza de Mayo, Palacio Barolo is approximately a 1.4km walk. Head west on Avenida de Mayo, and you'll find Palacio Barolo on the left side of the street. The walk is straightforward and takes about 15-20 minutes, offering a chance to see other landmarks along the way.

  • 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 costs between 3400-4100 ARS and takes only a few minutes. Ensure the meter is running or agree on a fare beforehand.

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Discover more about Palacio Barolo

Palacio Barolo, located on Avenida de Mayo in Buenos Aires, is a landmark office building with a rich history and unique design. Designed by Italian architect Mario Palanti and commissioned by Luis Barolo, the building was completed in 1923 and was inspired by Dante Alighieri's Divine Comedy. Palanti, believing Europe was headed for collapse, envisioned the Palacio Barolo as a sanctuary for Dante's ashes, mirroring the poet's journey through the afterlife. The Palacio Barolo's architecture is divided into three sections: Hell (the basement and ground floor), Purgatory (floors 1-14), and Heaven (floors 15-22 and the lighthouse). Each section contains symbolic elements related to Dante's work, such as the nine arches in the lobby representing the nine circles of Hell. The building stands 100 meters tall, with each meter representing a canto from the Divine Comedy. The lighthouse at the top once served as a beacon for ships arriving in Buenos Aires. Today, Palacio Barolo is a National Historic Monument of Argentina and offers guided tours that explore its architecture, history, and symbolism. Visitors can experience the building's unique atmosphere, ride in vintage elevators, and enjoy panoramic views of Buenos Aires from the rooftop lighthouse. The building also houses offices, a Spanish language school, and a tango clothing store.

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