Plaza Independencia, square in Mendoza, Argentina

Plaza Independencia is a large public square in the center of Mendoza, Argentina, with wide paved paths, grassy areas, shade trees, and benches spread across its grounds. It sits slightly elevated above the surrounding streets and is flanked by buildings such as the Teatro Independencia and the Museo Municipal de Arte Moderno.

The square was laid out after the 1861 earthquake, which destroyed much of old Mendoza and led to the rebuilding of the city on a new grid with open green spaces. Over the following decades, key public buildings were erected around it, gradually making it the center of civic life.

On weekends, artisans set up their stalls along the paths and street performers gather visitors around them, giving the square a lively weekend feel. On other days, locals use it for short breaks, walks, or casual meetings between errands.

The square is open around the clock and well lit, making it easy to visit at any hour of the day or night. The paths are flat and wide, so getting around is straightforward; evenings are a good time to see the fountain at the center illuminated.

The fountain's 900 nozzles, 350 RGB LEDs and surround sound were inaugurated on 9 July 2021. The travertine frieze planned in the 1940s was never made; the 1995 work 'La Libertad, esa gesta anónima' was created by Eliana Molinelli, Eneida Rosso and Laura Valdivieso over six months, with cast-iron plates in the middle showing a flag falling into water.