The Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica is the most important catholic temple in Montevideo and is located in the Old City, right in front of Plaza Constitución, also known as Plaza Matriz due to the presence of this church, which is the Mother Church of the city. In 1975, the building was declared a National Historic Monument, recognizing its architectural value and its relevance within the Uruguayan heritage.

Its history dates back to colonial times, when in 1740 a first brick church was built in the same place where the cathedral stands today. In 1790 the foundation stone of the new building, designed in neoclassical style, was laid. Although the work is traditionally attributed to Tomás Toribio, it is debated whether other architects, such as José del Pozo y Marquy or José Custodio de Sáa y Faría, also participated in the design. Over time, Bernardo Poncini made modifications that gave it its definitive appearance. The temple was consecrated in 1804, when Uruguay was still part of the Viceroyalty of the Río de la Plata, and in 2004 its bicentennial was celebrated.

Throughout the 19th century, the church acquired greater hierarchy within the ecclesiastical structure. In 1870 it was named a minor basilica, and on July 12, 1878 Pope Leo XIII elevated it to the rank of cathedral. In 1897 it received the title of Metropolitan Basilica, after the creation of the dioceses of Salto and Melo as suffragans.

In this temple are celebrated the most important ceremonies presided by the Archbishop of Montevideo. However, as in other parishes, it has a parish priest who is in charge of the daily religious activity. Thanks to its spaciousness and beauty, it is also a frequent venue for weddings and choral concerts. Following the tradition of the 19th century, the cathedral houses the remains of outstanding figures of Uruguayan history, both religious and civilian.

Dedicated to the Immaculate Conception and the patron saints of Montevideo, San Felipe and Santiago, the cathedral is a space of great significance for the city. In its interior rest personalities such as Cardinal Antonio María Barbieri, the first archbishop of Uruguay Mariano Soler and the first bishop Jacinto Vera. Key figures of the country's political and military history also rest there, such as former presidents Venancio Flores, Fructuoso Rivera and Joaquín Suárez, as well as independence leaders Juan Antonio Lavalleja and Dámaso Antonio Larrañaga.

With its imposing neoclassical architecture and deep historical significance, the Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica remains a religious and cultural landmark in Montevideo.