Beneath the large equestrian statue of José Artigas at the centre of Plaza Independencia lies the mausoleum where Uruguay's founding father is buried. An honour guard stands watch 24 hours a day. The underground chamber is open to visitors: a staircase descends into a circular room where the sarcophagus sits in dim light, surrounded by flags and stonework.
The mausoleum opened in 1977. It is simple and dignified — more civic monument than tomb — and the contrast between the bustling plaza above and the quiet chamber below is striking. If you arrive during the changing of the guard (which happens at regular intervals), it's worth pausing to watch. Admission is free.