Delve into Argentine history in the Plaza de Mayo
Surrounded by the Cabildo (museum), Casa Rosada (Government building) and the city’s Metropolitan Cathedral, Plaza de Mayo’s high concentration of iconic landmarks and its tendency to attract both supporters and protesters of successive governments make it a microcosm of the vibrant past and present of Argentina. Aside from being a political, financial and administrative center, the square has been – and continues to be – a symbol for hope. At its center stands the Piramide de Mayo, a snow-white obelisk erected in 1811 to celebrate Argentina’s independence from Spain. The famous square has also been bombed by the military and crowded by the Madres de los Desaparecidos every Thursday at 3.30pm since 1977. The headscarves painted on the ground around the obelisk mirror those worn by the Madres de la Plaza de Mayo, who forever protest against the injustice of their lost children, who disappeared under the military dictatorship (1976-1983). The Casa Rosada home to the balcony that Evita often used to address huge crowds of Argentineans in Plaza de Mayo below was also the iconic setting for “Don’t Cry for Me Argentina,” the signature song of the musical ‘Evita’. Although the famous Plaza de Mayo square may occasionally attract some small-scale protests, including an eternal group of Malvinas/Falkland veterans demanding compensation, it is mostly occupied by scurrying tourists snapping pictures or friendly vendors selling candied peanuts. Whether you are in Buenos Aires for a long or short stay, Plaza de Mayo is a must! Its strong historical essence and meaning will send chills through your body. See more of our favorite experiences in Buenos Aires…
Plaza de Mayo is the oldest public square in Buenos aires, and was the scene of many of the most important events in the city’s history.
Thanks for visiting our Central & South America Travel Blog! Feel free to follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram or contact one of our Travel Specialists via email, phone or chat to plan your perfect trip to Buenos Aires & Argentina.
