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Palacio Salvo, Plaza Independencia
Montevideo
Montevideo, Uruguay; the Capital
Montevideo is one of the oldest cities in Uruguay, but one of the youngest capitals in Latin America. In 1724 a Fortress was build on a hill next to a natural bay in reaction to the foundation of Colonia del Sacramento in 1680 (by the Portugese) directly opposite to Buenos Aires on the other bank of the Rio de la Plata. In 1726 the city "San Felipe y Santiago de Montevideo", later called Montevideo, was build on the other side of the bay. The old city centre was build on a small lands end and heavily defended with 400 soldiers living near the city walls. The main fear was from the Charrua indians and not the Portugese. Nowadays the city holds over 1,3 million inhabitants, has a lively night life, miles of sandy beaches and a lot of beautiful parcs. Some impressions have been listed below.
Plaza Independencia - Independence square
Located at the border of the old city (Cuidad Vieja) and the new city centre the Plaza Independencia (Independence Square) is found. In the centre an statue of General Artigas can be found. Artigas is considered the father of Uruguay. The Plaza is the heart of the city and is surrounded by an interesting array of architectural styles.
Fortaleza del Cerro
The current fortress was build in 1808 and was the first Spanish settlement on the North shore of the Rio de la Plata. It protected Montevideo on the other shore of the natural bay. The building is renovated and now a militairy museum, with a marvelous view over the Rio de la Plata, the countryside and ofcourse Montevideo.
Mercado del Puerto (Spanish)
This market (since 1868) in the harbour area holds a large number of small restaurants in this one large market hall. Large steaks, of very good quality can be eaten here. The food is prepared on an asado (Uruguayan bbq). Staying in Montevideo a visit should be part of your stay.
Tango - Bar Fun-Fun
The Tango is born in Buenos Aires and Montevideo. Buenos Aires cultivates the show Tango, for the numerous tourists. The Tango in Montevideo is more natural, as if it's an element of life, beautiful, gracious, unobstructive. To enjoy the Tango Bar Fun-Fun can be visited, where the tango is lived for already over 100 years.
Parque Rodó
One of the most beautiful parcs in Montevideo is Parque Rodó. Build on the former dunes it has some small height differences. In the parc there is a small castle and you'll find a permanent fair. Located on the other side of the rambla (boulevard) you'll find the beach Playa Ramírez.
Basilica Cerrito de la Victoria
This Basilica was ordered to be build by General Oribe in 1849 with the name "Pura y Limpia Inmaculada Concepción". The Spanish master architect was Antonio Fongivell. There are still some orginal elements from 1849. It's worth a visit.
Barrio Ruess
A small neighbourhood in Uruguay has a special attraction; all houses are painted, all in different colors. The colors create a real lively sight, looking a little bit like all kinds of candy combined. An impression can be seen from the picture. A nice attraction to visit when time allows.
Cathedral, Iglesia Matriz
This church was first build in 1740 but collapsed in 1788. A new Matriz was build from 1790. The new church was inaugurated in 1804, after 14 years of contruction. The new Matriz was again the religous heart of the city. The church has been an inspiration to the people of Montevideo for over 200 years. It's worth a visit.
The beaches
Montevideo is build along the shore of the Rio de la Plata. A long boulevard stretches along miles of sandy beaches. In summer the entire population seems to be at the beach. A lot of activities can be found, from ball sports on the beach to swimming, surfing, diving, fishing and sailing (from the ports of Buceo and Carasco).
