Visiting the Obelisk in Buenos Aires
Sleek and imposing, the Obelisk is the tallest monument in the capital of Argentina. It is arguably the most recognizable landmark in the country, viewed by many locals as a national emblem of patriotic pride. The Obelisco, as it is known locally, was erected in 1936 to mark the four hundredth anniversary of the city's founding. Standing at 67.5 meters (about 221 feet), the structure dominates the skyline, rising well above the surrounding buildings. Today, it serves a function similar to the digital billboards of Times Square in New York. As you walk by, you can often catch up on major local events simply by glancing at the temporary decorations or digital displays wrapped around its base.
A peerless monument
The site where the Obelisk stands is historically significant. It was once the location of a church dedicated to San Nicolás de Bari (Saint Nicholas of Bari). This church is remembered as the place where the Argentine flag was officially hoisted for the first time in 1816. This historical milestone is commemorated by an inscription on the north face of the Obelisk. Serving as a modern successor to the site's history, the monument acts as a focal point for national identity. Designed by architect Alberto Prebisch, the Obelisk cost 200,000 ARS (about $0.20 in 1936 currency) to build. Constructing this 170-ton monolith required 680 cubic meters (about 24,000 cubic feet) of cement and 1,360 square meters (about 14,600 square feet) of white stone sourced from Córdoba. Architecturally, the monument follows the principles of nationalist aesthetics, defined by its massive proportions and clean, minimalist lines.
The Obelisk of Buenos Aires! This central point of the city is at the intersection of the main roads. It is from Avenida 9 de Julio and Avenida Corrientes that you can see it best. It is quite imposing, fairly recent, and very tall, but for me, its main value is as a meeting point with friends. Everyone in the city knows it, so it is easy. You can also take some beautiful photos with the large avenues all around. The Carlos Pellegrini subway station is the easiest way to access it, in addition to a multitude of bus lines.