Beneath the famed dome, history whispers and pages turn at El Ateneo Grand Splendid. It is not just a bookstore. It is a journey through time. This magnificent building began its life in 1919 as the Grand Splendid Theatre. It quickly became a cultural hub in Buenos Aires.
Imagine porteños dressed in their finest clothes. They gathered here for ballet performances and operas. El Ateneo Grand Splendid even hosted the first “talkies” ever shown in Buenos Aires. The air buzzed with excitement and anticipation.
Odeon, a national record label, once called this building home. Legendary singers like Carlos Gardel recorded here. In 1923 LR4 Radio Splendid began broadcasting from within these walls. El Ateneo Grand Splendid was a true cradle of Argentine culture.
Fast forward to the year 2000. The theatre was transformed into the El Ateneo Grand Splendid bookstore that we see today. The conversion was done with immense care. Architects preserved the original decor and stunning architecture.
Look up at the iconic dome. It features frescoes by Italian painter Nazareno Orlandi. The paintings add to the grandeur of the space. They offer a glimpse into the past.
Notice the theatre boxes. Once, they held the city’s elite. Now, they are quiet nooks. Visitors can browse books or simply soak in the atmosphere of El Ateneo Grand Splendid.
Take a moment to appreciate the details. The crimson stage curtain still hangs. The auditorium lighting casts a warm glow on the books. The shelves hold over 120000 titles. You are sure to find something that piques your interest here in El Ateneo Grand Splendid.
Consider stopping at the café. It is located on the former stage. Imagine performers filling the space with music. Verdi, Rossini, and Tchaikovsky once echoed here.
El Ateneo Grand Splendid reflects Argentina’s deep love for literature. Buenos Aires boasts one of the highest numbers of bookstores per person in the world. This one is the jewel.
El Ateneo Grand Splendid attracts over a million visitors each year. People come to experience its unique heritage. It feels like stepping back in time.
The Guardian named El Ateneo Grand Splendid the second most beautiful bookstore in the world. National Geographic declared it the most beautiful in 2019. It is a must-see for any visitor to Buenos Aires.
Whether you are a book lover or not, El Ateneo Grand Splendid is worth a visit. Explore this beautifully preserved antique theatre. It captures the “old world” architecture and Latin flair of Buenos Aires.
So, take your time. Browse the shelves. Find a cozy spot to read. Let the history of El Ateneo Grand Splendid envelop you. It is more than just a bookstore. It is a living monument to culture and art.