A hidden treasure in Buenos Aires: the Legislature Library

The City pulses with history and invites you to explore its most iconic spots. Yet, beyond the traditional tourist circuits, there is a space that often goes unnoticed by visitors; the Esteban Echeverría Library of the Buenos Aires City Legislature.

If you are a culture enthusiast or just enjoy architectural beauty, you cannot miss it. Located on the main floor of the imposing Legislative Palace, at Perú 160, this public library is much more than just a book archive. It is a true work of art in itself, a sanctuary of knowledge that invites you to explore its halls and delve into the past and present of the City's.

A European-Inspired Palace with an Argentine Soul

The building that houses this magnificent library, declared a National Historic Monument in 2011, was designed by Argentine architect Héctor Ayerza. Built between 1926 and 1931, this building elegantly blends neoclassic and French academicist elements.

Originally conceived as the headquarters of the City Council, it was inspired by European palaces, evoking the warmth of a private residence. The history of its construction is meticulously recorded in a photo album kept in the library itself, from the laying of the foundation stone in 1926 to its inauguration on October 3rd, 1931.

Upon entering the Esteban Echeverría Library, located on the first floor, your eyes are drawn upwards to its high ceilings and dozens of shelves housing thousands of books on its two storeys. However, the most striking feature is the extraordinary woodwork by cabinetmaker Gabriel Tarris.

The wood used for the stairs, shelves, drawers and doors is Italian walnut, providing unparalleled warmth and sophistication. The floors, made of Slavonian oak, evoke the famous Versailles pattern. Remarkably, the floor has never been lacquered and remains in its natural state, preserving its authenticity and original charm.

Another highlight is the spiral staircase leading to the second floor, enclosed in a stained-glass drum. The space also features two solid bronze chandeliers, emphasizing the room’s perfect symmetry and a decorative wrought iron fireplace emulates the feel of libraries in private homes.

Next to the entrance, there is a painting of great historical and artistic value, Salida del teatro, by Catalan painter Román Rivera. This artwork was a gift from Infanta Isabel of Bourbon during her visit to Buenos Aires on the City´s centenary.

While most of the materials used in the building come from Europe, there is one element that connects it to Argentina: An Andean limestone in the San Martín Hall, brought from the Andes Mountains.

Stories among Volumes

Home to dozens of thousands of books, this public library specialises in subjects that are the soul and driving force of a city: Law, Social Sciences, History and Politics. Its collection also includes a vast array of periodicals, from historic newspapers to specialist magazines, offering a fascinating vision of the daily life, public debates and cultural changes that have marked bygone times.

The richness of the Library ’s collection is not the result of chance; it is the result of an acquisition process that began with its foundation. Great part of its initial stock came from donations by prominent figures of the time and the acquisition of private collections belonging to important political and intellectual personalities in Argentina. This origin gave it a unique character and an incalculable value from the outset.

The Library is also home to a significant collection of texts on history, politics and philosophy as well as an important range of volumes about Ciudad de Buenos Aires, from its origins to the present day.

In addition to its impressive reading and reference room, the Library of the City Legislature is also a heritage preservation centre. An adjacent area houses a restoration and conservation workshop of bibliographic material.

What else can you do at the Library?

The Library of the City Legislature is open Monday through Friday from 10 am to 6 pm, welcoming all those eager for knowledge and authentic experiences. Much more than a mere book repository, this public library is a dynamic hub of activity.

Visitors can take advantage of the public-access computers to research or connect online, or even explore the innovative “talking room”.

Additionally, there is a permanent support service for those seeking to delve deeper into a subject or just requiring guidance.

And best of all: the library offers an unmissable opportunity, a varied programme of courses and workshops which are free and open to the entire community. You can check the activity schedule at https://cultura.legislatura.gob.ar/ .

Remember that in addition to the Library, the Legislature also houses a museum, an art gallery and splendid halls, such as the Golden Hall, of breath taking beauty and well worth visiting.