Colonia lies 177 km. away from Montevideo, and is also a jewel shining its light on the waters of the Río de la Plata. Its rich history holds legends, myths and legacies which may be read on every stone and will be long remembered. Since 1995 the city is listed as part of Mankind’s Cultural Heritage, and its lighthouse built in 1857 seems to keep watch over the ruins of the San Francisco Convent. Wedge stones on Calle de los Suspiros (Street of Sighs) whisper the stories of colonia lifestyle. There is so much to see: houses built in the early XVIIIth century, the ruins of the San Francisco Chapel and Convent, built in 1704; Teatro Bastión del Carmen built on the remains of the fortress and city walls and turned into an exhibitions center and theater.

This is Uruguay: the past, present and future, hand in hand.

The capital of Uruguay, stands proud as if faces the waters of the Río de la Plata. Its social, cultural and business life is intense. Business people, college students, tourists and numerous cultural activities turn it into the perfect combination between modernity and tradition. For Montevideo has the wealth of a rich past and the charm of unexpected and pleasant surprises. The riverside drive extending from the Harbor to Carrasco is the perfect place for learning more about this beautiful city, with its Old Quarters where colonial cobblestones tell the story of bars. Pubs and restaurants make an excellent stop after a long stroll. The Harbor market, art galleries and museums are a great attraction and pedestrian Sarandí Street is where you can buy the most beautiful crafts. Punta Carretas is the modern neighborhood where growth never seems to find an end, with signature restaurants, design stores and skyscrapers. On Sundays, the open market at Tristán Narvaja is the choice of those who love antiques. February is the time for feasting as Carnival reaches Montevideo with its colorful Uruguayan bands or Murgas and Comparsas.