Uruguay sightseeing. Travel guide - attractions, sights, nature and touristic places
Uruguay has just recently become popular with tourists from Europe and Russia. This is a very interesting and original country, a vacation in which will leave many unforgettable memories. The capital of the country, the city of Montevideo, is famous primarily for its architectural landmarks. This is a place where travelers are able to see buildings that belong to the colonial epoch, as well as beautiful old houses that border with modern buildings, office centers and banks. There are several parks and large squares in the city, where on any time of the day one can see unhurriedly walking local people and guests of the city.
The Independence Square is considered the largest square in Montevideo. The main place of interest in the city, Artigas Mausoleum, is also located there. There is one more sight right in front of the historical landmark. This is Palacio Salvo, the highest building in South America. Travelers are also recommended to visit Plaza Constitución square as near it they will find such a famous landmark as Iglesia Matriz de El Salvador church that was built in the eighteenth century. There are also many museums in Montevideo, the most famous being Museo del Gaucho y de la Moneda and the National Museum of History.
The suburbs of the capital are no less interesting. Here Colonia del Sacramento remains one of the most important tourist destinations. The city was founded during the colonial period, so beautiful buildings of that time have become its signature element. Every year the city hosts a big agricultural fair that attracts farmers and planters from all parts of the country. This is the time when it's possible to buy absolutely best vegetables and exotic fruit in the country. Copyright www.orangesmile.com
Colonia Suiza is another great place to see old architectural landmarks. The town was founded in 1862 by settlers from Switzerland. Tacuarembó is also known as "the town of statues" because of a large number of statues and monuments located in it. Travelers will find interesting places on nearly every street and square of Tacuarembó. Finally, there are many picturesque villages near big cities. Here visitors will be able not only to walk in beautiful places, but also to purchase memorable souvenirs.
History and Entertainment
By the 16th century, the territory of Uruguay was populated by the Indian tribes of the Charrua. The colonial period began only in 1515. The first Europeans visiting the lands were Spaniards. In 1776, the territory of Uruguay became a part of the Kingdom of Rio de la Plata. At the beginning of the 19th century, the country saw the struggle for independence that was gained in 1825. Five years later, the first Constitution was adopted and the first political parties were formed in Uruguay. Nowadays, Uruguay is a republic. The exotic African country has started to attract tourists relatively recently.
Besides its unique nature and historical attractions, Uruguay can impress with its interesting national traditions. Food traditions of the country are really unique. Their formation was seriously impacted by the Spain domination. Today, typical dishes for local people are paella and pizza that are offered to visitors at any local restaurant.
The Uruguayan cuisine can really impress gourmets. Here, exquisite meat dishes are cooked on the open fire. Pork and beef are similarly popular here. On the open fire, meat obtains some special exquisite flavors. The dish called milanesas, or tender fried chops, are very popular with European travelers.
The main national drink in Uruguay is yerba mate, unusual tea that is made of dried leaves of the common local plant. For local people, this drink has long become an integral part of the culture. You can buy this extraordinary “tea” in any market and food stores. Some of the most popular gifts among tourists are special round cups for mate and other accessories for making tea.
Uruguay is a popular place for beach recreation. It offers its guests to walk along picturesque beaches with soft white sand. The most popular and well-equipped resorts are located in the surroundings of Montevideo. Some of the prestigious hotels and entertainment venues are situated at the resort of Punta del Este.
The real exotics here is the vacationing at the resorts of Atlantis and Piriapolis. Tiny towns are located on the bank of Rio de la Plata. This natural area is considered special. Here, ocean waters are combined with river ones, due to which the wares obtain an unusual brown tint. Local beaches look very effective and attractive. There are also interesting places to walk there near the beaches.
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Fantastic City Tours and Excursions in Uruguay
Reference information
Map of all parks
National and city parks of Uruguay
♥ National Park 'Cabo Polonio' . On the map
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♥ National Park 'Esteros de Farrapos e Islas del Rio Uruguay' . On the map
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♥ National Park 'San Miguel' . On the map
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Famous and uniques places in Uruguay from our review series
Hotel Fasano Las Piedras
From the series “Hotels harmoniously built into the natural landscape”
The unique eco-friendly Hotel Fasano Las Piedras, located on the territory of the spa town of Punta del Este, is one of the best-known and harmonious eco-friendly hotels in the world. It was built in the wonderfully beautiful area. On the Hotel Territorium there is a natural cave, as well as a medicinal water source. Only the natural materials were used in the construction of the hotel. The chic rectangular wooden cottage does not hurt the surrounding natural harmony at all. In the grotto was a hall of one of the two restaurants furnished, and the source has been converted into the beautiful basin. Guests of the Fasano Las Piedras hotel can enjoy the full-fledged eco-recreation. At your disposal is an excellent spa salon with indoor pool. Next to the hotel there are a lot of wonderful … Read all
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Sightseeing in popular cities of Uruguay
Montevideo
Another interesting historical object is the Estévez Palace built in 1873. The luxurious palace originally belonged to Francisco Esteves, but by the end of the 19th century, it was acquired by the Uruguayan government. The building served as the main presidential residence for more than a hundred years until it was decided to convert it to a museum of presidential gifts. It functioned only a few years. In 2009, the beautiful palace was restored and converted into a mausoleum, which currently … Read more 
