Metropolitan Cathedral

The metropolitan cathedral of Buenos Aires, a neoclassical temple

With its Greek-temple-shaped façade, the metropolitan cathedral of Buenos Aires surprises by its neoclassical appearance. It is the main Catholic church of the city and the seat of the archdiocese. The Buenos Aires audio-guided tour stops here to evoke this major monument, on the Plaza de Mayo.

The seat of the archdiocese

The seat of the archdiocese of Buenos Aires, the metropolitan cathedral stands at the corner of San Martín and Rivadavia streets, on the Plaza de Mayo. Its façade, adorned with high columns and a pediment, evokes an ancient temple, which distinguishes it from other cathedrals. Inside, it houses notably the mausoleum of General San Martín, hero of Argentine independence, permanently guarded.

What to see

You admire the Greek-temple-shaped façade, the richly decorated interior and the mausoleum of General San Martín. The cathedral, at once a place of worship and of national memory, occupies a prominent place on the Plaza de Mayo. It is a major stop for lovers of history and religious heritage in Buenos Aires.

Practical information

The metropolitan cathedral lies on the Plaza de Mayo, at the corner of San Martín and Rivadavia streets, in the heart of Buenos Aires, reachable on foot. A working Catholic place of worship, it can be visited with respect for services; entry is generally free, but hours vary with celebrations. It is best to check them before coming.

What does the metropolitan cathedral of Buenos Aires keep?

It houses notably the mausoleum of General San Martín, hero of Argentine independence, on the Plaza de Mayo.

Why does the cathedral look like a Greek temple?

Because of its neoclassical façade, adorned with high columns and a pediment, which evokes an ancient temple and distinguishes it from other cathedrals.