A million stories whisper from these walls. Welcome to the National Library Mariano Moreno. This isn’t just a building it’s a living testament to Argentina’s vibrant past.
The National Library Mariano Moreno stands proudly in Recoleta. It’s the largest library in Argentina. Its history stretches back to 1810. Born from the fervor of the May Revolution it began as the Public Library of Buenos Aires. Mariano Moreno himself a key figure in the revolution became its first director.
The library’s initial collection was a fascinating mix. It included books from the expropriated collection of Bishop Orellana. Patriotic citizens like Manuel Belgrano also donated their treasured volumes. This early collection reflects the struggle for independence. It’s a powerful reminder of the library’s crucial role in shaping a new nation.
The library moved several times. Its early homes included an old Jesuit mansion. Later it occupied a building designed for the National Lottery. Early visitors often marveled at the lottery-themed staircase. Imagine their surprise learning the building’s history.
Paul Groussac another significant director left an indelible mark. He implemented a new classification system. He also published two influential journals La Biblioteca and Los Anales de la Biblioteca. Groussac’s four-decade tenure enriched the library’s collection. He received important donations like Angel Justiniano Carranza’s personal collection. Interestingly both a previous director Marmol and a future director Borges experienced blindness. Groussac himself lost his sight yet continued his work.
The library’s current home is a masterpiece of brutalist architecture. Designed by Clorindo Testa Francisco Bullrich and Alicia Cazzaniga it’s a stunning structure. The building was finally completed in 1992. The site was previously occupied by the Unzué Palace. This palace was the official residence of President Juan Perón and his wife Evita. Its demolition made way for the library’s modern structure.
The National Library Mariano Moreno holds almost a million items. These include books manuscripts photos maps scores and recordings. It boasts Latin America’s largest newspaper archive. The library’s treasure room holds particularly valuable items. It contains 11000 volumes including 21 incunables from the 15th century. A page from the Gutenberg Bible is also housed here.
So step inside. Feel the weight of history. Let the whispered stories of the National Library Mariano Moreno captivate you. This library isn’t just a repository of knowledge. It’s the beating heart of Argentina’s intellectual and cultural legacy.