Plaza de Mayo is the political heart of Buenos Aires. It is small and unkempt, but has been the site of many a political demonstration since its inception. Originally laid out in the 16th century and called Plaza del Fuerte (Fortress Plaza), it was renamed May Plaza in honor of the declaration of independence from Spain on May 25, 1810. While the plaza itself is unassuming, it is surrounded by many of B.A's landmarks, including Casa Rosada, where Evita Peron spoke to thousands of Argentineans. Cinema tidbit - The balcony of Casa Rosada was the site of the only scene in Madonna's film, "Evita" that was actually filmed in Argentina.