Casa Rosada, the Pink House, is the presidential palace of Argentina and one of the best-known buildings in Buenos Aires. It serves as the executive mansion and the office of the President, so it is first of all a working seat of government. Its colour is what most visitors remember: a striking pink that sets it apart from the surrounding streets and makes it easy to recognise at a glance.
The palace is located at Balcarce 50 in the city centre, close to Plaza de Mayo. Visitors are often drawn to its historical balcony, the place from which Argentine presidents have addressed crowds gathered in the square below. Standing in front of the building, it is easy to see why it has become a symbol of the country's political life.
What to expect
- The building itself: the distinctive pink facade and the famous balcony, best appreciated from the Plaza de Mayo.
- The setting: the square is one of the historic heart of the city, surrounded by other landmarks.
- A civic visit: because it is an active government building, it is more a place to view from outside and reflect on the nation's history than a leisurely sightseeing stop.
Around the palace
Because Casa Rosada sits in the centre of Buenos Aires, it works well as one stop in a walk through the older part of the city. The surrounding streets and squares offer cafés, museums and the bustle of everyday city life, so a visit to the palace can easily be combined with an afternoon exploring the neighbourhood.
For questions before you go, the palace can be reached by telephone at +54 11 4344 3802. Plan to arrive with an open mind about how much of the interior you will be able to see, since the building remains an official residence and office.