Rivaling Palermo’s Malba for cutting-edge looks is this stunning art museum, prominently located at the northern end of Puerto Madero. It shows off the collection of billionairess, philanthropist and socialite Amalia Lacroze de Fortabat, Argentina’s wealthiest woman. There are galleries devoted to Antonio Berni and Raúl Soldi (both famous Argentine painters) and works by international stars like Dalí, Klimt, Rodin and Chagall; look for Warhol’s colorful take on Fortabat herself in the family portrait gallery. Call ahead for group tours in English.
The building was designed by renowned Uruguayan architect Rafael Viñoly, and is a creation of steel, glass and concrete – the last a most appropriate material considering its patroness (Fortabat is the major stockholder of Argentina’s largest cement company). Finished in 2008, it encompasses over 6000 sq meters, with several airy floors showcasing works by famous Argentine and international artists.
The most interesting thing about the museum itself, however, might be the movable aluminum panels above the glassy ceiling. They tilt open and close, keeping sun off the delicate artworks. Lacroze requested this feature so that she could see her collection and the stars at the same time.
