El Ateneo Grand Splendid, Buenos Aires : Interesting Facts, Information & Travel Guide
- By
- Aparna Patel
- |
- 21 Jun, 2023
- |
Welcome to El Ateneo Grand Splendid – the unique and luxurious bookstore in the heart of Buenos Aires. This library, originally built as a theater, has been transformed into a beautiful bookstore and music hall. It has become a favorite destination for book lovers, tourists, and locals alike. This article will provide interesting facts, information, and a travel guide for anyone looking to explore El Ateneo Grand Splendid. You’ll learn about the history of this building, its amenities, what to expect when you visit, and more!
Table of Contents
Interesting Facts About El Ateneo Grand Splendid, Buenos Aires
1. It Was Once One of the Largest Theaters in Buenos Aires
El Ateneo Grand Splendid first opened its doors in 1919 as one of the largest theaters in Buenos Aires. Throughout its history, the theater has featured and hosted some of the greatest operas for the Buenos Aires elite.
2. It Was Converted Into a Bookstore in 2000
In 1929, the theater began to show only movies, but it didn’t manage to survive the transition and by 2000 the theater had been abandoned. A group of visionary entrepreneurs decided to convert the theater into one of the most amazing bookstores in the world.
3. The Stage is Now Used as a Reading Room
The stage of the former theater was transformed into a reading room, where visitors can take a seat and read a book or share with friends. It also features live performances from time to time.
4. It Has Recovered Many of the Theatre’s Original Features
In its transformation to a bookstore, El Ateneo Grand Splendid has retained many of its original features, like the 20ft ceilings, intricate paintings, the boxes, the small balconies, wooden fan windows, and the baroque-style dome.
5. It Has Shown Up in Multiple Films
This iconic bookstore has shown up in movies like “Wild Tigers I Have Known”, “Eva” and “Tango: The Martial Arts”.
6. It Has Become an International Tourist Attraction
El Ateneo Grand Splendid has become a major tourist attraction not just in Buenos Aires but the world-over. People from all over the world come to visit the place and take pictures, post them online and spread the word.
History & Information About El Ateneo Grand Splendid, Buenos Aires
El Ateneo Grand Splendid is a historic bookstore located in the neighborhood of Recoleta, Buenos Aires, Argentina. It is one of the most famous and prestigious bookstores in Latin America. It was originally built as a theatre in 1919, at the behest of entrepreneur Max Glucksmann. It was designed by architects Peró and Torres Armengol, and is listed as a historic monument by the City of Buenos Aires.
The building was remodeled in 2000 and converted into a bookstore, with the central theater hall functioning as the main bookshop. The upper galleries, boxes and balconies were converted into individual rooms, conference halls, film halls, cafés, and other areas. El Ateneo Grand Splendid is now part of the larger El Ateneo bookstore chain.
El Ateneo Grand Splendid is internationally renowned for its design and historical significance. It has been featured in countless international publications, including the New York Times and United Airlines magazine, and has been recognized as one of the World’s Most Beautiful Bookstores by international travel websites. As of 2020, the bookstore has more than 400,000 titles and offers an eclectic selection of books, from classic to contemporary.
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Travel Guide For Visiting El Ateneo Grand Splendid, Buenos Aires
I. Introduction
El Ateneo Grand Splendid is a bookstore located in Buenos Aires, Argentina. It is one of the most famous bookstores in the world and a must-visit destination for any tourist traveling to Buenos Aires. Built inside a converted theater, El Ateneo Grand Splendid provides an unparalleled shopping experience that pairs luxurious architecture with unique book selections from all genres, making it a paradise for book lovers. Whether you have an interest in reading or just looking for some interesting travel photos, El Ateneo Grand Splendid is well worth your time.
II. How to Get There
El Ateneo Grand Splendid is located in the Palermo neighborhood of Buenos Aires. The easiest way to get there is by taking a taxi or using public transportation. If you’re using public transportation, take the D line of the subway to Plaza Italia (Estiba Palermo) and then walk for about 10 minutes.
Once you have arrived at El Ateneo Grand Splendid, you will find plenty of parking available.
III. What to See and Do
El Ateneo Grand Splendid has been operating since 1919, and today, it’s one of the world’s most beautiful bookstores. The main attraction is the store itself, and visitors are encouraged to take some time to browse its extensive selection. El Ateneo Grand Splendid offers a variety of books in every genre, from fiction and non-fiction to children’s literature and textbooks. It also has an impressive collection of vintage books and rare editions.
When visiting El Ateneo Grand Splendid, be sure to explore its other features as well. The bookstore has a café and a theater, allowing visitors to enjoy something to eat or watch a show while they browse. Additionally, visitors can take a tour of the building, which offers insight into its history and architecture.
IV. Best Time to Visit
El Ateneo Grand Splendid is open every day of the week, so anytime is a great time to visit. However, the best time to visit is during the weekdays, as the store tends to be less crowded and can provide for a more peaceful shopping experience. If you’re visiting on the weekend, be sure to arrive early to beat the crowds.
V. Conclusion
El Ateneo Grand Splendid is a unique destination in Buenos Aires that should not be missed. Its combination of incredible architecture, vast selection of books, and delightful touches of café and theater make it a shopper’s paradise. Whether you’re visiting for a day or a week, be sure to include El Ateneo Grand Splendid on your list of things to do.
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Frequently Asked Questions About El Ateneo Grand Splendid, Buenos Aires
Q: What can I find at El Ateneo Grand Splendid?
A: El Ateneo Grand Splendid is a large bookstore located in the heart of Buenos Aires. It offers a wide range of books, from classic to contemporary, as well as music, DVDs, and CDs. It also has a great selection of food and snacks, a café, and a variety of events, such as lectures and live music performances.
Q: What is the history of El Ateneo Grand Splendid?
A: Originally built in 1919 as a theater, El Ateneo Grand Splendid was a stylish showcase of Argentinean culture, hosting live performances by popular stage actors. In 2000, it was transformed into a modern bookstore, and it has since become one of the most iconic attractions in Buenos Aires.
Q: What is the address of El Ateneo Grand Splendid?
A: El Ateneo Grand Splendid is located at Avenida Santa Fe 1860 in Recoleta, Buenos Aires.