The Cabildo on the south side of Plaza 9 de Julio houses the Historical Museum of the North (Museo Histórico del Norte), which covers the colonial and independence-era history of the Salta region. The building itself is the main attraction — a long white arcade of nine arches fronting the plaza, with a bell tower above the central arch. The interior courtyard is peaceful and well maintained.
The museum collection includes colonial religious art, weapons from the independence wars, gaucho costumes, and carriages. It is not the most dynamic museum in Argentina, but the building and its setting are excellent. Entry is inexpensive and the Cabildo is impossible to miss if you are spending any time on the plaza.