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Mercado del Puerto (Port Market)City/Region: Montevideo
Montevideo's historic port market is a lively affair, which takes place under a vast wrought-iron structure reminiscent of old European railway stations. Since 1868 it has been a hive of trading activity, and today is also the venue for some of the city's finest seafood eateries and steakhouses. Full of color and life, it is a great place for people-watching, exploring the labyrinthine alleys crammed with stalls, watching buskers and entertainers, and generally imbibing
the atmosphere of the city. The market is only open in the mornings, and is at its most lively on Saturdays.
National History MuseumCity/Region: Montevideo
The Museo Historico Nacional is a good place to begin an exploration of Montevideo for those interested in the city's past. It is housed in a conglomeration of several old houses in the Old City, all once dwelt in by national heroes. The main section, for example, topped by a distinctive octagonal cupola, was once the home of Fructuoso Rivera, the country's first president. The museum's collection traces the history of Uruguay from before its colonization by Europeans up to the mid-20th century.
Address: Corner of Rincon and Misiones Avenue in the Old City
Admission: Free
Legislative PalaceCity/Region: Montevideo
The impressive neo-classical Legislative Palace, built in the early 20th century, features four architecturally breathtaking facades oriented towards the four cardinal points, each decorated with bronze sculptures in turn representing Law, Justice, Science and Labor. It is particularly attractive when floodlight at night. The interior is just as awe-inspiring, housing some significant works of art, and guided tours are offered in English and Spanish.
Hours: Guided tours leave Monday to Friday between 9am and 5pm
Plaza IndependenciaCity/Region: Montevideo
Montevideo's showpiece plaza contains some of the city's most impressive architecture, including its best-known landmark, the massive Italianate edifice of the Palacio Salvo, designed by an Italian architect living in Buenos Aires, Mario Palanti. The building, finished in 1925, was originally intended as a hotel, but now comprises residential apartments and offices. For many decades it was the tallest building in South America, and is built on the site where Gerardo Matos Rodriguez is credited with writing the first tango in 1917. The Plaza also contains a statue of Uruguay's national hero, General Artigas.
Colonia del SacramentoCity/Region: Montevideo
A must-see for any visitor to Uruguay is the country's UNESCO World Heritage site, the historic town of Colonia del Sacramento, situated on the River Plate almost opposite Buenos Aires in Argentina. Dating from 1680 the quaint and quirky town is riddled with narrow cobbled streets lined with brightly colored houses, vibey bars, excellent restaurants and art and craft shops. Colonia is about two hours by road from Montevideo. Local operators offer day trips.
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