MONTEVIDEO, URUGUAY

Our tour will include views of Montevideo’s monuments, parks and gardens, the main points of interest being; the Ciudad Vieja (Old City), Solis Theatre and Independence Square – at the centre of which stands a monument dedicated to national hero José Gervasio Artigas, and his Mausoleum.

Our tour will include views of Montevideo’s monuments, parks and gardens, the main points of interest being; the Ciudad Vieja (Old City), Solis Theatre and Independence Square – at the centre of which stands a monument dedicated to national hero José Gervasio Artigas, and his Mausoleum. Facing Independence Square is Government House (housing the Museum of the Presidents). The immense Congress Building is the pride of Uruguay, It was constructed between 1908 and 1925 using local marble in 52 colours and 12 types of wood. We shall stop for a visit of the interior. We will then drive past the Prado neighbourhood, one of the oldest parks in the city. Here can be found the sculpture La Diligencia (The Stage Coach); a monument to the last Charruas Indians; and a lovely rose garden surrounding the Prado Hotel. We proceed to Batlle & Ordoñez Park, passing by the obelisk, the statue La Carreta (Covered Wagon), the Soccer Stadium and the residential area of Carrasco. Stopping at Plaza Virgilio, with its monument dedicated to the Fallen Marines, there is an excellent view of the City – a great spot for the keen photographers among us. We return along the coast back to the port. Please note that the Congress Building is a public building and office, and as such is subject to closure without prior notice due to parliamentary activities. There is some moderate walking involved in this tour, with steps at the Congress Building.

DESCRIPTION CORRECT FOR 2008 SOUTH AMERICA CRUISE