El Ateneo Grand Splendid

El Ateneo Grand Splendid is a bookstore that is known for being one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world. It is located in Buenos Aires, Argentina, and it has been visited by millions of people from all over the world. In this article, we will explore what makes El Ateneo Grand Splendid so special and why it is worth visiting.

El Ateneo Grand Splendid was originally built as a theater called Teatro Nacional Norte in 1919. It was designed by the architects Peró and Torres Armengol, who were inspired by the Paris Opera House. The theater was a popular venue for tango performances and other cultural events.

In the 1920s, the theater was converted into a cinema called Grand Splendid, which was a popular destination for movie-goers. In the 1990s, the cinema was closed down and the building was abandoned for several years.

In 2000, the building was purchased by the Grupo Ilhsa, which is a publishing company. They decided to transform the building into a bookstore, and after three years of renovations, El Ateneo Grand Splendid was opened in 2003.

One of the things that make El Ateneo Grand Splendid so special is its stunning architecture. The building has a neoclassical facade, with a grand entrance and a large dome. Inside, the theater’s original balconies have been preserved, and they now serve as reading nooks where customers can sit and read books.

The stage, which used to host tango performances, now serves as a cafe, where customers can enjoy a cup of coffee or a snack while admiring the beautiful surroundings. The bookstore has a vast collection of books, including both new and used books, as well as a large selection of music, DVDs, and magazines.

El Ateneo Grand Splendid has become a popular tourist destination, and it has been featured in numerous travel guides and magazines. The bookstore has also been used as a location for films and TV shows.

If you are planning a trip to Buenos Aires, visiting El Ateneo Grand Splendid should definitely be on your itinerary. The bookstore is located in the Recoleta neighborhood, which is known for its beautiful architecture and cultural attractions.

When you enter the bookstore, you will be greeted by the sight of thousands of books lining the shelves, as well as the beautiful architecture of the building. You can spend hours browsing through the books, reading in one of the balconies, or enjoying a cup of coffee in the cafe.

The staff at El Ateneo Grand Splendid are friendly and knowledgeable, and they are always happy to help you find the book you are looking for or recommend something new to read. The bookstore also hosts book signings and other cultural events, so be sure to check their schedule when you visit.

El Ateneo Grand Splendid is a unique and beautiful bookstore that is definitely worth visiting. Its stunning architecture, vast collection of books, and comfortable reading nooks make it a great destination for book lovers and tourists alike. Whether you are looking for a new book to read or just want to admire the beauty of the building, El Ateneo Grand Splendid is a must-see attraction in Buenos Aires.