Torre Monumental: A British Tower in the Middle of Buenos Aires

Just steps from Buenos Aires’ Retiro train station and the bustle of Plaza San Martín stands an unexpected piece of London skyline: a red-brick clock tower with green copper domes and a massive Union Jack carved into its base. Welcome to Torre Monumental, one of the city’s lesser-known but historically rich landmarks.

A Bit of History

Originally named the Torre de los Ingleses (Tower of the English), this clock tower was a gift from the British community in Buenos Aires to commemorate the centennial of Argentina’s independence in 1910. Construction started a bit late due to political delays and World War I, so the tower wasn’t inaugurated until 1916.

Designed by British architect Sir Ambrose Macdonald Poynter and built entirely with British materials, the tower was meant as a symbol of goodwill between Argentina and the UK—though that sentiment has had its ups and downs. After the Falklands War (1982), the name was changed to Torre Monumental, and the site saw periods of neglect. In recent years, however, the tower has been restored and reopened to the public.

Location & How to Get There

📍 Address: Av. Dr. José María Ramos Mejía 1315, Retiro, Buenos Aires

Torre Monumental sits at the edge of Plaza Fuerza Aérea Argentina, right across from the Retiro railway and bus stations. It’s an easy walk from Plaza San Martín, and a great stop if you’re exploring central Buenos Aires.

🚇 Nearest subway: Retiro Station (Line C)
🚶‍♂️ Also walkable from Microcentro or Puerto Madero.

Visiting Hours & Admission

🕰 Opening Hours:

• Wednesday to Sunday, from 11 AM to 5 PM

• Last admission usually around 4:30 PM
  (Note: Closed on rainy days and national holidays)

🎟 Admission:

• Very affordable: around ARS $500–$1000 (approx. USD $1–$2, subject to inflation)

• Entry includes access to a small museum and an elevator ride up to the viewing platform

What to Expect

Inside the tower is a compact museum detailing the tower’s history, the early British-Argentine connection, and the design of its iconic clock, which was crafted by the same makers as London’s Big Ben. You can take an elevator most of the way up, then climb a short staircase to the observation deck, which offers 360-degree views of the city.

From the top, you’ll spot:

• The lush Plaza San Martín

• The Port of Buenos Aires

• The skyline of Puerto Madero

• The sprawl of Retiro station and trains below

Best Time to Visit

• Late morning or early afternoon offers the best light for photos and fewer crowds.

• Avoid going on hot summer afternoons—there’s limited shade.

• Clear days are ideal for taking in the views.

Interesting Facts

• Same clockmakers as Big Ben: The clock was made by Gillet & Johnston, a famous English firm.

• Imported piece by piece: Everything—bricks, tiles, even the iron—was shipped from the UK.

• War scars: After the Falklands War, the tower was vandalized several times. The bullet holes and graffiti are gone now, but the scars shaped its modern identity.

• Green dome: The copper dome was originally shiny and metallic—oxidation turned it green over time, giving it that classic London look.

Nearby Attractions

• Plaza San Martín – A beautiful park perfect for relaxing under ancient trees

• Kavanagh Building – An Art Deco skyscraper with a curious backstory

• Museo de Arte Hispanoamericano Isaac Fernández Blanco – Just a short walk and worth a visit for colonial art and decor

• Florida Street – The city’s iconic pedestrian shopping street is nearby

Insider Tips

• Great for photos: The tower and surrounding plaza are perfect for architecture and cityscape shots.

• Combine it with a walking tour of Retiro or downtown Buenos Aires.

• Short visit: You can explore everything in under 45 minutes—easy to fit into a half-day itinerary.

• No gift shop or café, so bring water and snacks if you’re exploring nearby areas too.

Final Word

Torre Monumental may not have the fame of Teatro Colón or Recoleta Cemetery, but it’s a fascinating piece of Buenos Aires’ layered history. It stands as a reminder of international ties, architectural elegance, and the complex past of a global city. Whether you’re a history nerd, an architecture fan, or just looking for a great city view without the crowds, this underrated gem is worth the climb.