Congreso Nacional

The Congreso Nacional, Argentina’s National Congress, stands on Avenida Hipólito Yrigoyen in Buenos Aires. Free guided tours introduce the country’s political history and take visitors into the assembly halls. The building was designed by Italian architect Victor Meano in a Greco-Roman style; its marble exterior was completed in 1946. Tours are a practical way to see the interior and learn how Argentina’s government works. Bring a valid passport or national ID, arrive early to join the tour, and expect a security screening before entering.

The building and its design

The Congreso Nacional is Argentina’s national legislature, on Avenida Hipólito Yrigoyen in Buenos Aires. Italian architect Victor Meano designed the building in a Greco-Roman style after winning an international competition in 1895.

The Congress was inaugurated in 1906, but construction continued for decades. Marble cladding was added to the exterior in 1946. Its monumental design has been compared with the US Capitol in Washington and the Paris Opera House.

What to expect on a guided tour

Free guided tours include the assembly halls and explain the history of the building and Argentina’s government. Tours are available in English and Spanish, though the number of places is limited. Some visitors have joined without registering online, but a reservation does not guarantee that a tour will go ahead, so check current arrangements before making a special journey.

Arrive 10 to 15 minutes early and bring a passport or national ID. Identification is checked before entry, and a security scan follows. The visit takes about 45 to 60 minutes. Asking questions is a useful way to get more from the guide’s explanations.