El Ateneo Grand Splendid in Buenos Aires is a stunning, world-renowned bookstore housed in a beautifully restored 1919 theatre in the Recoleta neighborhood.

Originally the ornate Teatro Gran Splendid, with frescoed ceilings by Italian artist Nazareno Orlandi and lavish balconies, the building was transformed into a bookstore in 2000 while preserving its historic grandeur.

Today, it’s celebrated as one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world, with shelves in the former seating areas, cozy reading spots in the old boxes, and a café on the stage, drawing both locals and visitors alike.