The Arab Palace – Palacio Árabe
The Arab Palace – Palacio Árabe
- In the heart of Mar del Plata, Argentina, stands the enchanting Palacio Árabe, a testament to the mesmerizing allure of Moorish architecture. Although it is hidden by the taller buildings that surround it, you can see the decoration on the front.
- This architectural gem was born from the visionary dream of Syrian immigrant Jalil Mahmud Hassein, known as Julián Galli in Spanish. Hassein’s passion for the Iberian peninsula’s Moorish aesthetics ignited a desire to create something truly extraordinary.
- In 1945, Hassein turned his dream into reality by commissioning the brilliant architect Valentín Brodsky to craft a six-storied masterpiece that would embody the essence of the mudéjar style.
- This captivating palace weaves together a tapestry of Moorish and Islamic elements, showcasing iconic features like graceful arcades, intricate filigree embellishments, and vibrant polychrome tiles. Crowning this architectural wonder is a majestic minaret that graces one of the chamfered corners, adding an extra layer of mystique and charm.
- In 1995, the Lebanese community paid a heartfelt tribute to Galli by dedicating a plaque in the building’s grand hall. The Palacio Árabe, with its rich history and architectural splendor, continues to be a beacon of cultural appreciation and admiration in Mar del Plata.
