The Altino Arantes Building, also known as the Banespa Building, is a towering skyscraper located in the bustling city of Sao Paulo, Brazil. Standing at an impressive height of 161 meters, it was once the tallest building in the city and is still considered an iconic landmark.
The building was completed in 1947 and was originally constructed to serve as the headquarters of the Bank of the State of Sao Paulo (Banespa). It was designed by architect Plinio Botelho do Amaral, who was inspired by the Empire State Building in New York City. The Art Deco style of the building is evident in its ornate details, including the intricate carvings on the exterior walls and the grand entrance hall.
The Altino Arantes Building has 35 floors, each with a unique purpose. The lower floors were originally used for banking operations, while the upper floors housed offices and administrative departments. The top floor of the building features an observation deck, which offers breathtaking views of the city skyline.
In 2000, Banespa was privatized and the building was sold to a private company. It was renamed the Altino Arantes Building in honor of the bank's founder. The building underwent extensive renovations to modernize its facilities while preserving its historic features.
Today, the Altino Arantes Building is home to a variety of businesses and organizations. It remains a popular tourist attraction, drawing visitors from around the world who come to marvel at its impressive architecture and enjoy the panoramic views from the observation deck.