COLONIA DEL SACRAMENTO...
An Irresistible,
Cute Little Town
Welcome to Colonia , oldest town in Uruguay.
Sitting on the estuary of Rio de la Plata, in the southeastern part of Uruguay, facing Buenos Aires-Argentina- lies one of the most charming destinations in South America...Colonia del Sacramento.
It was born as Nova Colonia do Sacramento in 1680, founded by Portuguese Manuel Lobo.
Throughout a century, it suffered the extended custody battle between Spanish and Portuguese conquerors.
In fact, it suffered sieges, assaults, change of dominions - it was founded twice - and handed over to Spain through San Ildefonso Treaty in 1777, before becoming part of Oriental Republic of Uruguay.
Uruguay was officially recognized in 1828.
|
Download Uruguay Map. You will need Adobe Reader in order to read this map. You can get Adobe Reader here. |
Fortress city and old smuggling port of Colonia del Sacramento has to be included in your next trip to Uruguay.
It's just irresistible, particularly the historic center (Barrio Historico).
You will walk cobblestoned streets aligned by 300-year-old houses and sycamore trees.
Old Colonia shows a distinctive architecture.
From a "disarranged" street plan and saddle roof blanket houses of Portuguese influence, to wider orthogonal streets (calles) and ceramic tiles related to Spanish domination.
A mix of Portuguese, Spanish and post-colonial style.
The historic center is reminiscent to Alfama district of old Lisbon.
Colonia del Sacramento is worth al least a day's visit.
It's a favorite retreat for Porteños (inhabitants of Buenos Aires) wishing to escape from vibrant city life.
There are regular, 2 to 3 daily ferry and hydrofoil services to/from Buenos Aires - hydrofoil does the journey in about 45' and costs three times more than a regular ferry (2,30 to 3 hours ride).
A cheaper and also interesting alternative is to take a boat in Tigre (just outside Buenos Aires), to Carmelo (Uruguay) and then get a bus to Colonia.
What to do in Colonia del Sacramento:
You will spend most of your time in the historic center.
If you need some guidance upon arrival just go to the Tourist Information Office (General Flores y Rivera St., just outside the walled town. Phone: 2-61-41 / 2-37-00)...
- Puerta del Campo or Puerta de la Ciudadela:
It was built in 1745 as the only entrance to town by Portuguese Governor Vasconcellos - Calle de los Suspiros:(Sighs Street)
It's magic.
Also the best place to enjoy Colonia's spectacular sunsets
Museums:
- Museo Portugues
- Museo Municipal
- Museo Español
- Museo del Azulejo
There are several others that you can visit them with a single ticket entrance.
- Iglesia Matriz:
Built in 1600s, the oldest in Uruguay - Lighthouse:
Built in 1857 from the stones of the convent of St. Francisco Javier (circa 1700).
Still active. Nice view from the top - Plaza de Toros: (Bullfight Ring)
Genuine Morisco style.
Inaugurated in 1910, it held about ten official bullfights until cancelled by Government in 1912 - Yatch Port:
Nice stroll.
You can also rent a row or sail boat
There are old houses opened to tourism...
- Casa Nacarello
- Casa del Virrey
As for beaches (playas), Colonia del Sacramento has several to choose from...
- Real de San Carlos
- Balneario Municipal
- Oreja de Negro
- El Alamo
- Playa de Ferrando
Well...you have enough to keep you busy for a while.
Don't forget to shop for some souvenirs and above all visit some of the excellent restaurants...and some local Swiss cheese.
This historical legacy it's been declared World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1995.
Have a great time in Colonia del Sacramento!...
How to Get There:
From Montevideo is serviced by bus.
From Buenos Aires, just go to the port (next door to Puerto Madero).
Please check Buquebus(in Spanish) to get a ferry or hydrofoil.
Where to Stay:
Colonia offers several hotels to choose from, from low -priced to comfort.
For budget accommodation, we would suggest:...
- Posada Del Rio:
Washington Barbot, 258 - Phone: 23-00-2 - Hotel Colonia:
General Flores Ave., 440. More info at barlocet@edinet.com.uy
Blink
Del.icio.us
Digg
Furl
Google
Simpy
Spurl
Technorati
Y! MyWeb