The cathedral on the western side of Plaza Independencia is a striking neoclassical building completed in 1856, its two distinctive towers rising above the square. The interior is restrained and elegant, with marble floors, gilded altarpieces, and a domed ceiling painted with religious scenes. The remains of General Gregorio Aráoz de La Madrid, a hero of the Argentine War of Independence, are kept in a side chapel.
The current building is actually the third cathedral to stand on this site — the first was a thatched chapel from the 16th century, the second a colonial church demolished when the present structure was built. Mass is held throughout the day, and entry is free outside services. The square in front is a fine place to sit and take in the facade in the afternoon light.