Casa Rosada: reviews and practical tips

Visiting the Casa Rosada

Rising proudly in the Montserrat neighborhood, the Casa Rosada stands on the very site of the former Buenos Aires fort, which has since disappeared. Over the past few centuries, the location held a strategic importance that is easy to overlook today. Back in 1713, a fort was built here, known as the Castillo de San Miguel in Spanish, serving as the headquarters for the governors of the Viceroyalty of the Río de la Plata. Later, in the mid 19th century, that fort was partially demolished to make way for a customs house. It was this new building with its mixed architectural elements that ended up being chosen as the government palace, even though Argentina had gained its independence back in 1816. Painted pink during the presidency of Domingo Faustino Sarmiento, the seventh president of the Argentine Republic, the building instantly became an iconic landmark of Buenos Aires.

Interior Beauty

While the exterior is striking, the inside is just as worth exploring. Visitors can satisfy their curiosity by wandering through the Salón de las Mujeres (Women's Hall), the Salón de los Científicos (Scientists' Hall), the Cristo Rey chapel (Christ the King chapel), the hall of honor, and the famous balcony overlooking the Plaza de Mayo. As a bit of history, it was precisely from this balcony that President Perón waved to the crowds alongside his wife Eva. Diego Maradona also had the chance to step out onto that same balcony to celebrate Argentina's victory in the 1986 soccer World Cup. History buffs will especially appreciate finishing their visit at the nearby Bicentenario Museum.