Montevideo: Architectural Delights

Two months and counting in Montevideo convinced us that it is arguably the best hidden gem in South America. Granted, Argentinians and Brazilians discovered it a long time ago and invade the city during the best part of a year.

Welcome to Montevideo, Paris of South America no matter what some people say
Welcome to Montevideo, Paris of South America no matter what some people say

The rest of the world’s population, however still lags behind in recognizing this beautiful city been as a worthy destination as Barcelona or Vienna. It’s great and we want to leave it this way. Imagine, strolling through parks or admiring amazing art nouveau architecture without somebody breathing down your neck waiting for the same spot to take a picture or shooing you sideways to take a selfie with that ubiquitous selfie stick that no tourist can live without.

There are number of iconic buildings Montevideo is known for.

The eclectic Palacio Salvo is the most recognizable one
The eclectic Palacio Salvo is the most recognizable one
Neoclassical Palacio Legislativo
Neoclassical Palacio Legislativo

Both are impressive and worth a visit. However, the most appealing thing about Montevideo is that it is a treasure trove of architectural delights. Forget about tourist guide, just keep walking. The most difficult thing would be not to trip over the uneven sidewalk while looking up at countless neoclassical, art nouveau or art deco masterpieces.

Montevideo: Architectural Delights

Montevideo: Architectural Delights

Montevideo: Architectural Delights

 

Montevideo: Architectural Delights

Montevideo: Architectural Delights

Montevideo: Architectural DelightsEvery detail was crafted to perfection:

Montevideo: Architectural Delights

Montevideo: Architectural Delights

Montevideo: Architectural Delights

Montevideo: Architectural Delights

Montevideo: Architectural Delights

Montevideo: Architectural Delights

Montevideo is not the place to look for a modern architecture. There is only one building that meets this description.

Torre Antel Tower
Torre Antel Tower
Torre Antel Tower
Torre Antel Tower

Old residential neighborhoods are charming and sad at the same time. They tell the story of the bygone era of prosperity and success that was etched in intricate ornaments adorning the houses.

The residential area near Mercado Agricola de Montevideo
The residential area near Mercado Agricola de Montevideo
in Cordón
in Cordón

Abandoned buildings are depressing. They do not carry an aura of historical ruins but visualize mere signs of hard times.

Depressing

Such an intricate work, but, sadly, the building is abandoned now
Such an intricate work, but, sadly, the building is abandoned now
Estación Central General Artigas is the former central railway station of Montevideo
Estación Central General Artigas is the former central railway station of Montevideo

The central railway station was designed by the Italian architect and engineer Luigi Andreoni. It was completed in 1897… and permanently closed in 2003. It’s a shame that the central station building is literally left to rot. It is a fine example of public building architecture circa beginning of 20th century. Even if the station was not needed anymore due to financial troubles, but why not repurpose it?

The former central station: building detail
The former central station: building detail
This building is just a shell
This building is just a shell
Dique Mauá (the dock Mauá)
Dique Mauá (the dock Mauá)

 

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16 thoughts on “Montevideo: Architectural Delights”

  1. Hey, I’ve always wondered why Uruguay is not in the tourist maps… As a lover of any off the path destination, this place would perfect for me to visit. Some of the buildings remind me so much of Barcelona by the way…

    • Thank you for your comment, Joan :). Montevideo cultural and architectural roots are closely related to Spain and Italy. There are some streets and buildings that looked like they belonged to some Italian places. Turning the corner or even just move to the next building – you are is Spain. Uruguay is a wonderful country. Do not wait too long before going there though – couple mentions in major destinations guides and it will be gone 😉

  2. I visited Montevideo from Argentina back in the late 80’s and even then it was a city that held a great deal of exotic wonder. Good to see that this has not changed and the architecture lives on.

    • I think this is the beauty of Montevideo. There are few modern buildings outside of Pocitos in the older parts of the city, so it kept its personality and charm.

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