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Torre Monumental
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Landmark
The Torre Monumental, formerly known as the Torre de los Ingleses (Tower of the English), is a historic clock tower located in the Retiro district of Buenos Aires. Completed in 1916, it was a gift from the British community in Argentina to commemorate the centennial of the May Revolution of 1810. Designed by architect Sir Ambrose Macdonald Poynter in the Palladian style, the tower stands 75.5 meters tall and features a red brick facade with stone trimmings. The clock at the top features four dials and a set of bells cast by the same foundry that produced those for Westminster Abbey. Following the Falklands War in 1982, the tower was officially renamed Torre Monumental as a result of the conflict with the United Kingdom. Its architectural details include various British symbols, such as the Tudor rose, the Scottish thistle, and the Irish shamrock. Today, the tower houses a visitor center and gives panoramic views of the city's port and the Retiro railway station from its observation deck.
- Location: Argentina
- Top sights: Railway Museum · Museo Iser · Monumento a los Caídos en Malvinas
- Nearby: Lanús (7 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Mar, Nov, Dec.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 25 | 24 | 21 | 17 | 13 | 10 | 9 | 11 | 13 | 17 | 20 | 23 |
| Rain mm | 110 | 125 | 122 | 100 | 72 | 49 | 68 | 69 | 80 | 113 | 104 | 97 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
Torre Monumental, formerly Torre de los Ingleses, is a historic clock tower in the Retiro neighborhood of Buenos Aires. The tower can be viewed from outside at any time; the interior is only accessible via guided tours.
Typical hours
The exterior is freely accessible 24/7. Guided tours inside typically take place on certain weekdays, and advance reservation is recommended.
Photography
Photographing the tower's impressive architecture is possible at any time from Plaza San Martín. The tower looks especially beautiful in the golden light of late afternoon.
Time needed
A photo stop and walk around the tower takes about 15 to 20 minutes. If you join a guided tour, allow an additional 30 to 45 minutes.
Combine with
The tower is located on Plaza San Martín, near Retiro station and the Kavanagh Building. Floralis Generica is also just a short walk away.
Getting there
Torre Monumental is easily reached by subway (Retiro station) or bus. It is just a few minutes' walk from Retiro train station.
Insider tip
Visit the tower on a clear day for the best skyline views. Buy a popsicle from the kiosk on the plaza and soak up the atmosphere.
Geography
Facts
- The tower was officially inaugurated on May 24, 1916.
- The total height of the structure is 75.5 meters.
- The clock mechanism was manufactured by Gillett & Johnston in London.
- The tower's bells weigh a combined total of about 7 metric tons.
- Materials used in construction were imported directly from England.
- The name was changed to Torre Monumental in 1982 after the Falklands War.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Torre Monumental (12)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Can one climb the tower?
Yes, during guided tours, you can enjoy the view.
Where is the tower exactly located?
It is centrally located at Plaza Fuerza Aérea in the Retiro district.
How much time to plan?
About 30 to 45 minutes for viewing and photos.
When is the best time to visit?
During the day, to see the architecture well.
Is the area safe?
Yes, during the day it is busy and well-guarded.
Torre Monumental: where is it located?
Torre Monumental is located in Argentina.
Torre Monumental: what is there to see?
Highlights include Railway Museum, Museo Iser, Monumento a los Caídos en Malvinas.
Torre Monumental: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Mar, Nov, Dec.
Torre Monumental: why is it worth visiting?
The Torre Monumental, formerly known as the Torre de los Ingleses (Tower of the English), is a historic clock tower located in the Retiro district of Buenos Aires.
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