Inside the Congreso Nacional

From the outside El Congreso de la Nación is on of the most recognisable buildings in Argentina, and last week I had the chance to take a look at the inside. Work started on the construction of Argentina’s parliament building in 1895 and the first joint session of the Chamber of Deputies and the Senata was opened by President José Figueroa Alcorta in May 1906. In true Buenos Aires style however, the building was not actually completed until 1946!

Tours in Spanish run most days and although some areas can be closed off (the day I visited for example the Senate side of the building was not open for visitors), it’s a fascinating insight into Argentinian political life, and also the opportunity to see some beautiful architecture and design.

We did enter the Chamber of Deputies itself but photos weren’t allowed, so here are other shots that I was able take.

El Salón de Pasos Perdidos

Located right next to the main entrance to the Chamber of Deputies, this room is used by Deputies to meet visitors and delegations. Each end features a large painting depicting moments of parliamentary history.

La Biblioteca del Congreso Nacional

Open to the public until 1975, the reading room of the library is entirely lined with hand-carved walnut panels and contains a clock once owned by Louis XIV dating from the 1600’s.

Corridors and Stairs