Uruguay is a country that is known for its former president José Mujica and its stunning coastal city, Punta del Este. This “Pearl of the Atlantic” is the perfect place to make unforgettable memories. From the giant sculpture of La Mano to the Casapueblo, inspired by Santorini, and the Puente Garzón circular bridge, there are plenty of sights to explore. The coast is just the beginning of the adventure.
Inland, visitors can find more surprises.
The Punta del Este lighthouse
is an architectural landmark that offers insight into the local maritime history. Colonia del Sacramento is a city with a unique culture that has been shaped by Spanish, Portuguese and post-colonial influences. It was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1995. Punta Ballena is a lesser-known neighbor of Punta del Este that has hills and beaches that lead to the Atlantic Ocean.It is home to the Casapueblo house-museum, which offers breathtaking views of the beaches and port. The Mercado del Puerto in Montevideo is a great place to try local dishes like empanadas and grills. Colonia del Sacramento is just a ferry ride away from Buenos Aires and it has plenty of attractions for tourists, including charming shops, historic monuments and fascinating museums. Foodies will love visiting the largest gastronomic street market in Montevideo.
Casapueblo houses a museum dedicated to Vilaró, an art gallery, a café, a hotel and the Ceremony of the Sun. The lighthouse can only be entered during Heritage Day. For those who want to visit religious sites on their trip to Uruguay, there are plenty of options.
The Basilica de la Virgen de los Treinta y Tres
in Montevideo is one of the most important religious sites in Uruguay. It was built in honor of Our Lady of Thirty-Three, who is believed to have saved Uruguay from a plague in 1832. The basilica has an impressive interior with stained glass windows and intricate carvings. In Colonia del Sacramento, visitors can explore the Iglesia Matriz, which was built in 1745 and is one of the oldest churches in Uruguay.It has an impressive façade with two towers and a bell tower. Inside, visitors can admire its beautiful altar and its impressive collection of religious artifacts. The Basílica de San Carlos Borromeo in Punta del Este is another important religious site in Uruguay. It was built in 1883 and it has an impressive neo-Gothic façade with two towers and stained glass windows. Inside, visitors can admire its beautiful altar and its impressive collection of religious artifacts. Uruguay has plenty of religious sites for tourists to explore on their trip to this beautiful country.
