Its central position to important political buildings such as the Casa Rosada and Cabildo means Plaza de Mayo has been the site of watershed moments throughout Argentina’s fraught history. Today it’s one of the most popular attractions in the city, for its grand architecture and fascinating background. Although it was mapped out in 1580 during the foundation of the city, the square got its name from the 1810 May Revolution. This was when Buenos Aires declared independence from Spain and began the Argentine War of Independence.
Central to the Plaza is the Pirámide de Mayo, an obelisk erected in 1811 for the first anniversary of independence. Casa Rosada is the pink 19th-century building that houses the president’s offices and marks the east side of the square. The building is guarded by the statue of General Manuel Belgrano, creator of the national flag, who sits atop his horse. From the balconies of Casa Rosada, political figures such as Juan and Eva Perón have delivered impassioned speeches. Take a tour of the building on weekends or discover the museum of political artefacts, open from Wednesday to Sunday.
Wander around the square to see the Buenos Aires Metropolitan Cathedral, the imposing Banco de la Nación building and the whitewashed Cabildo (Old City Hall). Inside the Cabildo there’s a museum on the May Revolution. An arts and crafts market is held in the courtyard patio on Thursdays and Fridays. Enjoy live music here on market days.
Free live music events are also held regularly in the main square. Visit during celebrations of historic events such as May Revolution Day on May 25 and Independence Day on July 9. On Thursday afternoons you’ll see a group of women in white headscarves. Since 1977, the Mothers and Grandmothers of Plaza de Mayo have held weekly demonstrations against the disappearances of their children during the military dictatorship of the 1970s and early 1980s.
Admire the architectural sights from a park bench or enjoy a picnic on the grass. The Plaza de Mayo is within walking distance of the city centre, in the Montserrat district. Access the square by public bus or metro.
