Plaza de Mayo (May Square), Buenos Aires (must see)

May Square is the oldest public square in Buenos Aires. Its story begins in 1580, when Juan de Garay founded the city. The plaza’s present form dates to 1884, when it was redesigned and named to honor the May Revolution of 1810, the movement that initiated Argentina’s break from Spanish rule.

As you stand at the center of the plaza, the Pyramid of May rises directly beside you. This white monument, first erected in 1811 to commemorate the May Revolution, was moved to this central position in 1912. From here, turn your attention east: the pale pink facade of the Pink House, the seat of the national government, dominates the entire side of the square. Directly in front of it, also on the east side of the square, stands the Equestrian Monument to General Manuel Belgrano, leader of the May Revolution, dedicated in 1873.

Next, look west, where the long, white, arched building on the left is the Cabildo, the only surviving colonial government structure on the plaza. The original town council was built in 1608, and the current version—completed in 1751—has undergone several modifications. Today it houses the National Museum of the Cabildo and the May Revolution, featuring colonial-era art and furnishings.

From the same position near the Cabildo, turn northwest to see the Metropolitan Cathedral of Buenos Aires, the city’s principal Catholic church. Its neoclassical facade resembles a European temple, marking a contrast with the surrounding architecture. Finally, look toward the northeast corner of the square to spot the elegant Buenos Aires House of Culture, the building between the Cabildo and the Cathedral.

Standing here, with nearly four centuries of history surrounding you, May Square offers one of the clearest windows into the political and cultural life of Buenos Aires.