Cabildo of Buenos Aires

The Cabildo de Buenos Aires is the oldest public building in Argentina's capital and the centre of local self-government from the eighteenth century until independence. The present block on the western edge of Plaza de Mayo follows a 1725 design by the Italian Jesuit Andrea Bianchi, combining Spanish colonial baroque with whitewashed arcades. The May Revolution of 25 May 1810 was proclaimed inside its rooms, toppling the Viceroyalty of the Rio de la Plata and opening Argentina's path to independence. Today the building houses the Museo Historico Nacional del Cabildo y de la Revolucion de Mayo, displaying documents, prints and period furniture. The rear patio hosts a craft market on Wednesdays and Thursdays. Entry is cheap and the balcony offers an easy view across the plaza.