Cabildo of Buenos Aires 🇦🇷

Located at Plaza de Mayo, the Cabildo of Buenos Aires offers you a direct connection to Argentina's colonial and revolutionary past. Originally established in 1608 and later rebuilt in the 18th century by Jesuit architects Giovanni Battista Primoli and Andrea Bianchi, this landmark served as the seat of the colonial town council and the Viceroyalty of the Río de la Plata government.

It was also home to the Royal Audience of Buenos Aires, the city's first public library, and even the main Buenos Aires prison from 1608 to 1877. Today, you can visit the building as the National Museum of the Cabildo and the May Revolution, opened to the public in 1938 following a careful 1930s reconstruction by architect Mario Buschiazzo that restored its colonial facade, tower, and red tile roof after partial demolitions.

Inside, you will see a rich collection of 18th-century paintings, artifacts, clothing, and jewelry. As you explore, be sure to step out into the courtyard, where you can admire the original 1835 ornamental water well.

What to see at Cabildo of Buenos Aires

• National Historic Monument dating back to colonial-era Buenos Aires
• Exhibits of 18th-century jewelry, clothing, artifacts, and paintings
• Preserved courtyard featuring an original 1835 ornamental water well
• Restored colonial architecture with reconstructed tower and arches
• Former site of the city's first public library and historic prison

Visiting tips

Take time to wander through the inner courtyard to view the historic 1835 ornamental water well up close.

How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Morning

How to get there & what’s nearby

Cabildo of Buenos Aires is easy to reach on Buenos Aires’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Colón Theater. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Buenos Aires travel guide.