Edificio Banco Comafi, Bank building in Diagonal Norte, Buenos Aires, Argentina
The Edificio Banco Comafi is a 10-story bank building on Diagonal Norte featuring a facade that blends Italian and French architectural elements. The structure contains three basement levels reaching about 40 feet (12 meters) below street level to house secure vaults for banking operations.
The building was designed by Francesco Gianotti, an architect who graduated from the Turin Academy of Fine Arts in 1904 before establishing his practice in Buenos Aires. His design reflects the architectural trends that European-trained professionals introduced to Argentina's capital during the early 20th century.
The structure represents how banks in early 20th century Buenos Aires wanted to project stability and importance through their physical presence. The ornate exterior and carefully proportioned spaces reflect the architectural language that financial institutions of that era used to communicate trustworthiness to the public.
The building sits just one block away from Plaza de Mayo, making it easy to find when exploring central Buenos Aires. Visitors can view the remarkable facade from street level without restriction.
The building features a clever separation of movement routes, with distinct paths for public visitors and bank staff that never crossed each other. Strategic lift placement allowed the two groups to circulate freely without congestion or interference in daily operations.
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