Palacio Barolo
Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires
Palacio Barolo is a landmark office skyscraper located on Avenida de Mayo in the Monserrat neighborhood of Buenos Aires, Argentina. Designed by Italian architect Mario Palanti and inaugurated in 1923, it was the tallest building in Buenos Aires and South America for over a decade. The eclectic architectural style uniquely incorporates allegories from Dante Alighieri's Divine Comedy, dividing the building into three symbolic sections representing Hell, Purgatory, and Heaven. The building stands 100 meters tall, corresponding to the 100 cantos of the Divine Comedy, and is crowned by a lighthouse symbolizing the nine choirs of angels, which can be seen from Montevideo across the estuary. Its foundations follow the golden ratio, and the lobby features Latin inscriptions, monster statues, and Masonic and alchemical symbols. Originally commissioned by entrepreneur Luis Barolo, the building was intended to house Dante's ashes far from Europe. Today, it serves as office space for various professionals, a Spanish school, and a tango clothing store. Declared a national historic monument in 1997, Palacio Barolo remains a unique architectural and cultural icon reflecting a fusion of Gothic, Art Nouveau, and Art Deco influences.
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Consejo: Visitors are advised to take guided tours to fully appreciate the building's intricate symbolism and architecture. The lighthouse at the top offers panoramic views and is best visited during clear weather. Booking tickets in advance is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons. The building is accessible during regular office hours, but some areas may require prior reservation. October is notable for the lighthouse's special illumination supporting breast cancer awareness.
Datos interesantes
- •The building's height of 100 meters corresponds to the 100 cantos of Dante's Divine Comedy.
- •Its lighthouse can be seen from Montevideo, Uruguay, across the Rio de la Plata estuary.
- •The building's foundations follow the golden ratio, a mathematical principle associated with aesthetic harmony.
- •The lobby contains inscriptions in Latin and monster statues representing the nine circles of Hell from Dante's Inferno.
- •The ornamental spire aligns with the Southern Cross constellation on July 9, Argentina's Independence Day.
Historia
Palacio Barolo was commissioned by Italian immigrant Luis Barolo and designed by Mario Palanti, with construction completed in 1923.
It was the tallest building in Buenos Aires and South America until the Kavanagh Building surpassed it in 1935.
The design was inspired by Dante's Divine Comedy, with architectural elements symbolizing Hell, Purgatory, and Heaven.
The building was declared a national historic monument in 1997.
Its lighthouse, originally an arc lamp, was restored and re-lit in 2009 as the "Bicentennial Lighthouse." Over time, the building has housed various offices and cultural institutions, maintaining its historical and symbolic significance.
Guía del lugar
Lobby and Central Hall1923
The lobby features a central hall with inscriptions in Latin and monster statues symbolizing the nine circles of Hell. It radiates into nine vaulted archways, reflecting the Inferno's structure. The floors and walls display alchemical symbols, Italian flag colors, and Masonic motifs. Original antique elevators are still operational here.
The Three Symbolic Sections1923
The building is divided into three sections: the basement and ground floor represent Hell; floors 1 to 14 symbolize Purgatory; floors 15 to 22 correspond to Heaven. Each floor has unique ornamentation reflecting these themes.
Lighthouse and Spire1923
Atop the building is a lighthouse with a powerful beacon representing the nine choirs of angels. The spire features an ornament depicting the Southern Cross constellation, which aligns with the actual constellation on Argentina's Independence Day, July 9.
Contacto
Teléfono: 011 6915-2385
