National Flag Memorial
Santa Fe
The National Flag Memorial in Rosario, Argentina, is a monumental complex built near the Paraná River shore. Inaugurated on June 20, 1957, it honors Manuel Belgrano, who first raised the Argentine flag in 1812. The complex spans about 10,000 square meters and was constructed mainly with Andean stone under architects Ángel Guido and Alejandro Bustillo, with sculptures by José Fioravanti, Alfredo Bigatti, and Eduardo Barnes. It comprises three main parts: the 70-meter Tower (Torre) housing Belgrano's crypt and commemorating the May Revolution of 1810; the Civic Courtyard (Patio Cívico), symbolizing state organization and used for large events; and the Triumphal Propylaeum (Propileo Triunfal), representing the nation after the 1853 Constitution and containing the Honour Room for the Flags of America. The memorial faces Belgrano Avenue and is bordered by Córdoba and Santa Fe streets, with access via the Pasaje Juramento pedestrian passage lined with Lola Mora statues. The site is central to Argentina's Flag Day celebrations on June 20 and honors immigrant nations by flying their flags on special holidays. A recent restoration project has enhanced lighting and the Honour Room. This iconic monument is a symbol of Argentine national identity and pride, attracting numerous visitors annually.
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Tip: Visit during Flag Day celebrations on June 20 to experience patriotic events and cultural activities. Tickets and online registration for special events are available via the official website. Note that the Honour Room for the Flags, tower viewpoints, and elevator may be temporarily closed during restoration works, so check current access conditions before visiting. Early arrival is recommended for large events to secure good vantage points. Discounts may be available for students and groups.
Interesting facts
- •The memorial's 70-meter tower contains the crypt of Manuel Belgrano, the creator of the Argentine flag.
- •One flagpole is kept empty for flying flags of immigrant nations' holidays, such as Japan, Italy, and Ireland.
- •The Pasaje Juramento pedestrian passage leading to the Propylaeum features statues by renowned sculptor Lola Mora.
- •The Honour Room beneath the Propylaeum displays flags of all American nations.
- •The monument ranks among the top 25 places to visit in South America according to TripAdvisor's Travelers Choice Awards 2013.
History
The National Flag Memorial was inaugurated in 1957 to honor Manuel Belgrano, who first raised the Argentine flag on February 27, 1812, near the Paraná River.
The site was selected based on historical research confirming it as the location of Belgrano's first flag raising.
Architects Ángel Guido and Alejandro Bustillo designed the monument in a stripped classical style, with contributions from sculptors Alfredo Bigatti, José Fioravanti, Eduardo Barnes, and others.
The complex commemorates key moments in Argentine history, including the May Revolution of 1810 and the 1853 Constitution.
Over time, the monument has undergone restorations and enhancements, including a notable lighting upgrade in 2007 for its 50th anniversary.
Place Guide
Tower (Torre)1957
A 70-meter high mast commemorating the May Revolution of 1810. It houses the crypt of Manuel Belgrano at its base and offers panoramic views from its summit (currently under restoration).
Civic Courtyard (Patio Cívico)1957
An open-air courtyard symbolizing the organization of the Argentine state. It is used for massive public events and patriotic celebrations.
Triumphal Propylaeum (Propileo Triunfal)1957
Represents the nation organized after the 1853 Constitution. Beneath it lies the Honour Room for the Flags of America, exhibiting flags from all American countries.
Contact
Phone: 0341 480-2239
