Altino Arantes Building

Gazing up at the Altino Arantes Building, have you ever wondered about its secrets? The Altino Arantes Building, once known as the Banespa Building, dominates São Paulo’s skyline. This art deco masterpiece was once the tallest building in South America. It held this title from its completion in 1947 until 1960. The Altino Arantes Building has a rich history. It was initially the headquarters of the Bank of the State of São Paulo (Banespa). Construction began in 1939, inspired by the Empire State Building and the vision of architect Plinio Botelho do Amaral. It took almost eight years to complete this concrete giant. The Altino Arantes Building was inaugurated on June 27, 1947. For nearly two decades, it reigned supreme as São Paulo’s tallest structure. In the 1960s, the building was renamed to honor Altino Arantes Marques, the bank’s first Brazilian president. Atop the Altino Arantes Building, an observation deck offers breathtaking panoramic views. Visitors can see up to 40 kilometers on a clear day. Landmarks such as the Municipal Market and Sé Cathedral are visible. Even the Edifício Italia, which eventually surpassed the Altino Arantes Building in height, can be seen from this vantage point. Inside, the building houses a museum. The Banespa Museum chronicles the bank’s century-long history. From its humble beginnings as the Bank of Hypothecário Credit of the State of São Paulo to its present form, the museum showcases its journey. The museum also features an impressive entrance hall. This hall has a stunning crystal chandelier in a “déco-eclectic” style and granite blocks on the floor. The Altino Arantes Building stands as a testament to São Paulo’s growth and ambition. It’s a symbol of architectural ingenuity and a beacon of the city’s financial history.