The Most Beautiful Bookstore in the World – Buenos Aires

Have you heard of this bookstore named “the most beautiful bookstore in the world” by National Geographic?

This gem in the Recoleta neighborhood was a theater and then a cinema in its previous lives. The theater opened in 1919, and was an epicenter of Porteño culture, hosting ballet, opera and the first “talkie” movies shown in Argentina . It hosted Tango legends such as Carlos Gardel.

It was transformed into a bookstore in 2000. Now that it is a bookstore you can just walk in for free and admire the space. You’ll find cozy reading corners with comfy chairs, and a café on what was previously a stage.

Ever since I watched the movie Beauty and the Beast I’ve wanted an opulent library like this in my home. So whenever I see fancy libraries or a beautiful bookstore such as this one, I’m in heaven.

Here is the address, which is in the Recoleta area:

📍El Ateneo Grand Splendid
1860 Ave. Santa Fe
Buenos Aires
Argentina