The Obelisk of Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires

The Obelisk of Buenos Aires stands at the intersection of the two most important roads of the city. Erected to commemorate the 400th Anniversary of Buenos Aires, it has over the years become the main symbol of the city.

The Obelisk of Buenos Aires was designed by architect Alberto Plebisch who was famous for constructing Tucuman modernist structures. It was built by the German construction company, G.E.O.P.E. - Siemens Bauunion - Grün & Bilfinger who completed construction in a record 31 days. The location chosen was that of the demolished San Nicholas of Bari church where the Argentine Flag was first hoisted in 1812. It was made of concrete and Olaen white stone from the Cordoba region.

The Obelisk of Buenos Aires was inaugurated in May1936. It is 67.5 meters high and ends in a lightning rod. There is one entrance and one can reach the top to view the city from the four windows at the summit by climbing 206 steps. The monument has suffered vandalism and covered with graffiti with political overtones. Some Argentine dictators have placed forbidding signs on the obelisk. It is also the venue of celebrations caused by Argentine sporting victories, music concerts, political demonstrations, religious congregations and candlelight vigils.