Plaza Grande (Independence Square) sits at the heart of Quito's Historic Center and has witnessed Ecuador's most significant moments since the 16th century. Four monumental buildings surround the square: the Carondelet Presidential Palace, the Archbishop's Palace converted into a shopping arcade, the Metropolitan Cathedral, and the Municipal Palace. In the center stands the Independence Monument honoring heroes of the August 10, 1809 revolution. Visitors can watch the Changing of the Guard ceremony every Monday at 11 AM.