The Atrium and the Portico

In earlier times, the atrium was enclosed by pillars and railings, which were later removed. In 1878, three iron gates forged by the craftsman Fidel Massa in his "Caballo" blacksmith shop were installed. The main gate bears the figures of the apostles Saint Peter and Saint Paul, with the date above them. At the top of the side gates are the names "María" and "José," respectively.

The main doorway, made of wood from the missions, belonged to the church of the Society of Jesus until the order's expulsion in 1767. Its doors, made of carob wood, are adorned with studs and knockers in the form of stylized figures.

Beneath the portico rests the urn holding the ashes of Dr. Gregorio Funes, Dean of the Cathedral, former Rector of the Colegio Convictorio de Nuestra Señora de Monserrat and of the Universidad Mayor de San Carlos, and a patriot of notable political standing.

Another monument, the work of De la Cárcova, holds the embalmed body of General José María Paz and the remains of his wife, Margarita. Paz fought in the Wars of Independence and in the war with Brazil, as well as in Argentina's civil conflicts.