Colonia Del Sacramento

By trvl

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Locally known simply as Colonia and located in southwestern Uruguay by Río de La Plata and Río Uruguay. It is the oldest city in the country and its historic quarter is a World Heritage Site since 1995.

The charm of this city comes from the successful fusion of Portuguese, Spanish and post-colonial styles.

The historic quarter is quite small and can be visited in one day. However spending a night is highly recommended as public lightning create a magical atmosphere.

Points of interest
The City Gate and wooden drawbridge
The lighthouse and convent ruins of the 17th century
The Basilica of the Holy Sacrament (1808)
Portuguese Museum in a house from the 18th century.
Casa de Nacarello (18th century)
Municipal Museum (rebuilt in 1835)
Viceroy's House
Iglesia Matriz (the oldest church in Uruguay, 1695-99)
The Bullring Real de San Carlos now abandoned.

If you have an extra day you must spend it at the beach.


Easiest and most common way to get there for tourists is from Buenos Aires, Argentina where you can take a ferry and be there in 3 hours or only 1 if you take the fast boat. They also have buses from Montevideo, Urugay.

Schedules and fares change but updated information can be found at www.buquebus.com. They also provide hotel deals. It is best to book in advance specially if it's high season.

Other companies providing this service are www.coloniaexpress.com and www.seacatcolonia.com




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