Edificio Instituto Biológico Argentino, Government building in Plaza Congreso, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
Edificio Instituto Biológico Argentino is a ten-story building located at Plaza Congreso with a Venetian-style facade and a clock tower crowned with bronze sculptures. The structure combines office functions with a visual landmark distinguished by its ornamental architectural details and decorative elements.
The building was constructed in 1927 under architect Atilio Locati's direction, initially combining research facilities in its lower floors with residential apartments above. It was significantly renovated in 2014 and now serves as the headquarters of Argentina's National Audit Office.
The bronze automatons that crown the clock tower perform their striking ritual hourly, creating a rhythmic sound that marks time for the neighborhood and draws the attention of passersby below.
The building is located at Avenida Rivadavia 1745, easily accessible near Plaza Congreso in the downtown area. Since it serves administrative functions, the interior is not open to casual visitors, but the clock tower and facade details are fully visible and observable from the street below.
The clock mechanism was handcrafted in 1926 by the Miroglio brothers and automatically strikes ten minutes after each full hour, a feature that remains functional today. This mechanical system demonstrates an early example of automated timekeeping technology installed in the city.
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