Opened in 1898, the building of Culture House was built to host one of the most representative newspapers of the epoch, La Prensa. It is now the headquarters of the City Culture House.
It is used to stage courses, art shows, exhibitions, and recitals for the community.
The building shows the splendor of French style in “Porteño” local architecture. The land had been bought by José C. Paz, founder of the newspaper. The building opened after two years of construction by architect Gainza & Agote and was considered unique among the main papers of the world headquarters.
The façades are the only examples the Garnier style in Argentina as
were the Paris Opera and the Montecarlo Casino.
The Golden Room: one of the most cherished jewels of the Culture House its Auditorium, the Golden Room modeled after rooms in the Palace of Versailles.
It has rich Italian carvings, tapestry, brought from France and a balcony for an orchestra decorated with the figure of the Goddess Athenea and the letter P. A complex set of mirrors stands out as one of the most salient characteristics of the auditorium.
From its creation onwards till today the Golden Room has been used for concerts and conferences and is a privileged environment for enjoying cultural events.
The big lantern crowns the building 50 mts. over the street level and stands out over the dome with its torch lit in one hand and a written sheet in the other representing freedom of expression.
The big lantern is a figure of Goddess Athenea, goddess of wisdom
and inspirer of the liberal arts. It weighs close to 4 tons.
The Siren: prior to radio it was one of the few means through which important news could be spread in an immediate way. Close to the lights, in the dome of Barolo Palace the La Prensa siren was for many years the fastest way of communication in the city.
It sounded for the first time July 17, 1900 when Humbert 1st. of Italy was assassinated.
Guided tours
Free of charge
Saturdays 4 pm & 5 pm
Sundays from 11 am till 4 pm (last visit 4 pm)
Meeting point: Bolivar 1 (at the corner of Rivadavia opposite Plaza de Mayo)
The guided tour takes one to Government Palace and Culture House (the La Prensa former building)
By taking this tour one can get to know the history of these buildings, appreciate pieces of art, coats of arms, and flags that represented us and see part of the architectural heritage from the beginnings of the 20th Century.
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