Montevideo is a vacationer’s paradise, with crystal blue waters, lush forests and a history and culture that is uniquely its own. Where is Montevideo? It is found in South America, in the country of Uruguay. Montevideo is the capital city of Uruguay and is also its largest city. Uruguay is one of the smallest countries in all of South America. This coastal town serves as the main port of the country.
Where is Montevideo located in Uruguay? The city is located at the southern tip of Uruguay, facing the Rio de la Plata (meaning Silver River) on the northeast, which leads to the South Atlantic Ocean. The other cities of Uruguay that are adjacent to it are Las Piedras, San Jose, Minas and Piriapolis.
Montevideo is a bustling city with over 1.3 million residents, accounting for about half of the population of the country. In 2010, the urban area was measured to have a population of 1.7 million people, although the numbers go up to 1.8 million residents if the entire metropolitan population is taken into account.
The capital city measures 209 square kilometers or 80.7 square miles while the urban area measures 429 square kilometers or 165.6 square miles. The metropolitan area of Montevideo measures 1,350 square kilometers or 521.2 square miles. At the same time, the city sits on an elevation of 43 meters or 141 feet above sea level.
Millions of tourists have a vacation in Montevideo, as it is one of the most beautiful and most economically advanced cities in South America. With its vibrant economy, friendly people, historical areas and beautiful scenery, a vacation in Montevideo is a must for any traveler.
The people of Montevideo take great pride in their culture, as can be seen in their art, music and dance. There are many free concerts usually held at the many plazas around the city, especially during the spring and summer season. Visitors can enjoy performances by the Philharmonic Orchestra of Montevideo as well as the Municipal Symphonic Band.
The people of Montevideo remain conservative when it comes to home life. The family is considered the basic unit, and it’s quite common to have several generations of one family living in one home. Large family reunions are common, usually held during the Christmas season. Mothers usually retire from the workforce to stay home and care for the children, with the help of other family members, so there is no need for the use of daycares.
For those in Montevideo for business, it’s important to dress conservatively. Dark colors are still the standard, even during the warm summer months. Also, it’s not surprising to have meetings start late, since the people can be quite tardy, as is typical of many Latin American cultures.
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Before getting down to business, small talk is a must. Lunchtime meetings are common to discuss business affairs, although dinners are for social affairs only. The people in Montevideo dine European style, often having dinnertime at 9 or 10 pm at night. After the meal, do not use a toothpick as it is considered highly impolite to do so.
The climate in Montevideo is described as mild humid subtropical. Due to its location near the sea, it also experiences an oceanic climate. The summers are generally warm, while the springtime is heavy with thunderstorms. Fortunately, the winter season is cool, although it can get quite windy and sometimes wet due to rains caused by overcast skies.
On average, the daily temperature in Montevideo is a comfortable 61 °F (16 °C. However, the city has been recorded to have some scorching temperatures, reaching as high as 109 °F (43 °C). On the other hand, the coldest temperature recorded is a freezing 21.9 °F (-6 °C).
The summer season in Montevideo starts in December and lasts till March. The fall season lands in the months of April and May. The winter season is from June to September. The spring season is in October to November.
Those on vacation in Montevideo find that that the best time to visit is the summer season. It is also the busiest time of the year for the city. Travelers can enjoy daily temperatures around 80 °F (27 °C). It also hardly rains during the summer season, making it perfect to go sight seeing. Because the city’s summer season coincides with many North American and European winter season, many travelers flock to Montevideo to escape the cold weather and enjoy warm sunny skies and crystal clear beaches.
On the other hand, the winter season is quite cool, although not freezing. The temperature averages around 50 °F (10 °C). It doesn’t snow in Montevideo, even during the winter season.
Rain showers and thunderstorms are common during the springtime and autumn months. The average temperatures stay within 70 °F (21 °C). Most travelers on vacation in Montevideo find that the autumn season also has the most rain.
Those planning a vacation in Montevideo will need to pack articles of clothing depending on the season they plan to visit and what activities are lined up. For a day of sight seeing, lightweight cool clothing is ideal, with comfortable walking shoes. Those planning to visit the other coastal cities should also pack some swimwear. In the wintertime, a heavy wool coat is a must. Since Montevideo is often thought of as a small European city in the heart of Latin America, keep in mind that the people dress in a modern and cosmopolitan manner, dressed appropriately in accordance to the weather and the occasion.
History of Montevideo
Montevideo was colonized by Spain and Portugal, as well as some influence from the French and British empires. The country itself is one of the youngest republics in Latin America.
The original settlers on the land were the native Charrua Indians. The Spaniards first settled along the Rio Negro in 1625. When the Portuguese came, they made a settlement on Colonia de Sacramento in 1680, as a counterpart rival to Buena Aires, which was a Spanish settlement. This move would place Montevideo at the center of the conflict between the two empires that wished to gain control of the land.
Montevideo traces its history back to the 18th century. In 1727, Bruno Mauricio de Zabala established the city. The Spaniards named the area as San Felipe y Santiago de Montevideo or Montevideo for short.
The name “Monte” is from the Cerro de Montevideo, one of the two hills of the city. There is some contention about where the name “video” came from, as there are several theories as to the etymology of the world. Most people believe it comes from Monte vide eu, which translates to “I saw a mount.” This is a Portuguese expression that may have been said those on the Magellan expedition upon seeing the Cerro de Montevideo. This and other hypothesis lack historical documentation to lend it credibility. On the other hand, some historians believe it comes from Monte Vidi, as referenced in the Diario de Navegacion, a Spanish document written during Ferdinand Magellan’s expedition dating back to 1520.
As a Spanish colony, Montevideo served as the main port of the empire for the South Atlantic Sea due to its strategic location on the Rio de la Plata. The city of Montevideo was in direct competition with Buenos Aires in the shipping and maritime trade. It also served as a Spanish naval base in 1776.
Since the country is located between Argentina and Brazil, the city of Montevideo was attacked so that it could be annexed to the neighboring country. In 1821, Brazil annexed the country. A series of wars and revolutions occurred as the city valiantly fought for its independence against Spain, Portugal and Brazil.
The country of Uruguay gained independence in 1828, after the wars of independence. Jose Gervasio Artigas declared the independence of the country and he became the country’s national hero. However, two opposing parties emerged, the Blancos and Colorados, which until today have alternate control of the presidency and leadership of the country.
In the mid-19th century, the city underwent massive development, heavily modernizing the city of Montevideo. A stagecoach bus line linked Montevideo to Union in 1853. The city also had the first natural gas streetlights, later converted to electric streetlights in 1886. The Teatro Solis was opened in 1856. Various public sanitation facilities were put up by 1861 while public water supply was established by 1871. The underwater telegraph line that connected Montevideo to Buenos Aires was installed in 1866. The neighboring towns of Colon, La Comercial and Buevo Paris were established in 1869. The new port was built in 1894 while the railway was inaugurated in 1897.
During the 20th century, the country achieved political stability and economic prosperity, led by President Jose Batlle y Ordonez. Many Europeans moved to and settled in Montevideo, lured by the economic prosperity and commercial opportunities available. By the mid 20th century, the country started to be known as the Switzerland of South America.
By the 21st century, the economy of Montevideo started to decline, due to widespread political violence. It also suffered a major banking crisis in 2002. In 2006, Mercer Human Resource Consulting named the city of Montevideo as having the best quality of life in any Latin American city. Among 350 cities on the list, Montevideo ranked 76th.
Montevideo Demographics
The bulk of the country’s population resides in Montevideo. In fact, over half of the people in Uruguay choose to live in the country’s capital. The population grows at a rate of 1.5 annually, although it seems to be declining in recent years. This is due to women having fewer children as well as migration away from the city.
The residents of Montevideo enjoy a high standard of living and good quality of life. Education is free in the country since the 1870s and many of the residents are literate, about 96%. The education system is based on the French educational system and it is free for all levels, up to the university level. Only about 4% of the male and female population older than 10 years of age is considered illiterate. At the same time, religion isn’t taught in public schools, a practice done since 1909.
It is compulsory for the residents to vote and participate in the political process. Since the country has been called the Switzerland of South America, it’s no wonder that the people in Montevideo are cosmopolitan, sophisticated and enjoy many freedoms.
There is a strong class distinction in Uruguay. This can be seen in simple things such as automobile ownership or even membership to a specific soccer club or social club. Those who use gauchesco words or slang are often concentrated in the lower classes. Of the residents of Montevideo, 13% are considered to live in poverty. Most of these are mestizos and the African Uruguayans, which are considered to be minorities. There is also a high unemployment rate. The upper class has control of businesses, ranching, and the professional sector as well as political control.
Sixty percent of the population is Catholic, although they are not as devout compared to the other people of other Latin American countries. The upper class is mostly found to attend regular church service. The third of the population do not practice any formal or structured religion. There are some Protestants and those who practice African derived religions. There is a small Jewish population in Montevideo, although this is slowly disappearing.
Due to their high love of their asados and other meat dishes, the people do suffer from hypertension and often die from cardiovascular disease. Since smoking is widely prevalent especially among men, lung cancer is also quite high. Because of alcoholism and heavy drinking, many patients between 20 to 49 years old have a drinking problem and later develop cirrhosis of the liver.
The people in Montevideo enjoy a heritage of Italian and Spanish descent. This is why many people in the city are fair skinned, light haired and may even have blue eyes. An estimated 6% of the population has Native American blood as well. Around 4% of the population is of African descent, because these were slaves that were brought in during the 19th century to do manual labor and work as servants for the European households. The last wave of immigrants during the mid 1950s brought in French, Germans, Dutch, English, Irish, Greek, Polish, Hungarians, Croats, Armenians, Lebanese and even Russians to the city.
Spanish is the major language in Montevideo, although the version of the language spoken is Rioplatense or Platellano. English is also widely spoken so those on a vacation in Montevideo need not worry.
The country is democratic and oftentimes quite liberal compared to its South American neighbors. Same sex marriage is recognized in Montevideo and in the rest of the country.
Economy of Montevideo
The city of Montevideo is the economic and political powerhouse of the country. The largest businesses in the country are headquartered in the nation’s capital. Many state owned companies are also based in Montevideo, such the nation’s state owned railway, energy, electricity, telecommunications, banking and insurance companies.
The service sector based mostly on tourism and public services is one of the main driving forces of the economy of Montevideo. The Ciudad Vieja area is undoubtedly the most popular tourist destination in Montevideo, since the bulk of the city’s historical buildings, museums, galleries and other entertainment areas are located here.
The economy relies on about 32% of the population to drive the economy, as there are many retirees as well as public servants in the country. Of the available labor force between the ages of 14 to 55 years old, only 61% are working.
Free trade is alive and well in Montevideo, having one of the most active ports in the country and as the country is a member of the Mercado Comun del Sur (Mercosur). Its main trading partners are the neighboring countries of Argentina and Brazil. About 20% of the goods produced in the country go to the countries of the European Union and the rest go to the United States. The city imports goods from other Mercosur countries, the EU and the US.
The currency used in Montevideo is the peso. The largest bank in the country is headquartered in Montevideo, the Banco Republica. Montevideo has historically had a very stable banking sector, although this was heavily affected by a banking crisis in 2002.
The Port of Montevideo continues to be a lifeline to the city, playing a major role in the city’s economy since the time of the Spanish colonial rule. The port brings in business with a growth rate of 14% every year.
Montevideo Attractions
Montevideo pays homage to its rich past and many traditions, while at the same time keeping a keen eye on the future. This makes a vacation in Montevideo most ideal because it affords travelers the best of both worlds.
Many people on vacation in Montevideo start at the Plaza Independencia in the Ciudad Vieja area. The Solis Theatre as well as the Palacio Salvo is here. The Plaza divides the city’s new and old sections. The most notable landmark here is the statue of the father of Uruguay, General Jose Gervasio Artigas. Travelers on vacation in Montevideo go here to take pictures of the various styles of architecture, the Puerta de la Ciudadela, as well as to make their way from one section of the city to another.
Palacio Salvo has the distinction of being the highest building in South America at one point in time. It is located at the Plaza Independencia. The building has a counterpart in Buenos Aires, the Palacio Barolo. It has a working lighthouse on top and features Art Deco architecture. Many travelers often stop by the Café Salvo for a cup of coffee while here. Travelers often have their picture taken here, as it is one of the most interesting and beautiful buildings in the city.
Cuidad Vieja is an interesting place to be since there are many art galleries, clubs and some of the oldest buildings in the city. Travelers will enjoy walking around the Old City by the harbor, passing by the colonial street lamps, antique shops and soak in the European style architecture found in the area.
The Palacio Municipal or City Hall is an impressive brick building that serves as the seat of government in the city. Designed by Mauricio Cravotto and inaugurated in 1941, the building is fronted by a replica of David of Michelangelo made in bronze. Various art and cultural exhibitions are held in the building’s main atrium. The History of Art Museum is located on the west wing of the building. There is an observation deck on the 22nd floor.
Another government building that has become a tourist attraction is the Palacio Legislativo. This is a three story building done in Neo-Classical design and is often said to be one of the most beautiful buildings in Latin America. Over 50 different types of marble were used in the construction of this building.
Gaucho Museum is a specialty museum that features the historical gauchos of Uruguay. The craftsmanship, culture and way of life of the Uruguayan cowboy can be seen in the various artifacts on display. There is also a section of the museum devoted to the Uruguayan money. The building itself is beautifully made as it used to be a home of a wealthy family before being converted into a museum. Travelers can learn a lot about the gauchos of Uruguay from a visit to the museum.
On one side of the Plaza is the shopping district where those on vacation can take their pick of the many shopping choices as well as Art Deco buildings and many other interesting sights to see along 18 Julio Avenue. This is the premiere shopping section of the city.
The Obelisk of Montevideo is located along the avenues of 18 Julio and Artigas Boulevard. It is a granite and bronze monument created by Jose Luis Zorilla de San Martin that stands 43 meters tall. The three sided obelisk was erected in 1938 and represents Law, Liberty and Force. It was inaugurated to honor the centennial celebration of the country’s constitution.
Parque Prado is a restful park, complete with tree-lined walkways, fountain and a lake. The park was established in 1873 and sits on 106 hectares. Travelers will find the botanical gardens here, as well as the Presidential Residence. There is also a rose garden with 12,000 roses specially imported from France back in 1910. The Parque Prado is home to two museums: the Juan Manuel Blanes Museum, which is home to a number of artworks by famous artists of the country and the Professor Atilio Lombardo Museum. Each museum has its own gardens. It’s a good place to relax and unwind after a day of sightseeing.
The Solis Theater is a cultural center of Montevideo, where travelers can see world-renowned conductors perform and listen to opera and watch other cultural performances. The building was opened in 1856, has been fully restored to its old world splendor and is today open to the public for guided tours. There is also a restaurant located on the balcony that overlooks the Plaza de Independencia.
The Catedral Matriz is a Catholic church built in 1804, making it one of the oldest cathedrals in the country. It has striking domed bell towers, mosaic tile floors, stained glass windows and a skylight. The cathedral is also the resting place for many important people of Uruguay.
Rambla de Montevideo is one of the best beachfront stretches in the world. Travelers on vacation can rent a bike or simply jog or walk along the promenade. Many enjoy going towards Carrasco since it is less crowded. Many locals hang out here and it’s a good place to get an authentic pulse of the city. During the summer season, it can get crowded with beach goers looking to escape the hot sun by taking a swim in the cool waters.
The Cerro de Montevideo is one of the two hills in the city. Here, travelers can find the Fortaleza del Cerro. This is a fortress that looks out to the Bay of Montevideo. Located in the barrio of Casabo, it was intended to hold as a means of defense for the city and at the same time used as a shipping and trading port. The fort took 30 years before construction was completed in 1809, making it the very last fort built by the Spaniards in the country. In 1916, it was converted into a Military Museum.
Those going to Montevideo in September should take advantage of Heritage Day. Since 1995, the people of Montevideo are able to see special places that are typically closed to the public. These include embassies and other government buildings. Best of all, admission is free on the weekend of Heritage Day.
For those who want to do a bit of shopping, 18 Julio isn’t the only place to be. The Feria de Tristan Narvaja is a world famous flea market. Held every Sunday morning, it’s a good place to find antiques, books, unusual souvenirs and other curiosities.
Montevideo Culture
The people of Montevideo are known to be quite friendly and very hospitable. They may not smile to strangers, but they will be helpful to travelers in need. However, do not make the mistake of confusing them for other Latin American nationals such as Paraguayans or Argentineans. Spanish is the official language in the city.
It is customary to greet each other with a beso or a kiss on the cheek. Men shake hands. Those on vacation in Montevideo will notice that the people are frank and straightforward. If a man finds a woman attractive, he may follow the woman with his gaze to express his interest.
Do not use the OK gesture with your hands while in Montevideo. It is considered a very rude gesture in the country. To express agreement, say yes instead.
The people also have a deep appreciation for the arts, dance and music. Tango and Milonga are said to have their origins along the Rio de Plata. The La Cumparsita is said to be the most famous and sexiest Tango of all Tango dances, and it has its roots in Uruguay.
Soccer is a matter of national pride for the people of Montevideo. It is the national sport.
Those on a vacation in Montevideo will be pleased by the array of delicious cuisine available to tantalize the taste buds. The Spanish influence is seen in the flavors of the food. Beef and other meat items are commonly eaten, especially for lunch and dinner, which are the main meals of the day. Asado or barbequed meat is the national dish, while the parrillada or beef and entrails are commonly eaten as well.
For an appetizer, pork sausage is a popular choice, although many meals often begin with soup. Thanks to the influence of the Italians in the 19th century, pasta is also widely eaten in Montevideo, particularly on Sunday meals. Instead of burgers, a chivito or steak sandwich is a good option. All the high fat, low fiber intake is a cardiologist’s nightmare, and is probably one of the reasons why cardiovascular diseases are the main cause of death in the city.
Those with a sweet tooth will savor the flavors of dulce de leche. It is delicious with Mate, which is a tea-based beverage made from the yerba mate leaves.
Christmas Eve dinner is one of the most important meals of the entire year, as the entire family comes together to celebrate the holiday season. During other special occasions such as birthday or baptisms, it’s not uncommon to have a whole roasted cow to serve to guests.
Although the population is largely Catholic, the people aren’t very devout. In fact, many religious holidays have been renamed. Instead of Christmas, the people celebrate Family Day or Navidad. Instead of the Lenten Season, Holy week is referred to as Tourism Week.
Those traveling to Montevideo in December will enjoy the annual La Noche de las Luces, or the Night of Lights. This is a Saturday night featuring a colorful fireworks display at the Pocitos Beach.
Interesting Facts About Montevideo
- Where is Montevideo in terms of quality of life compared to other Latin American cities? According to Mercer Human Resource Consulting, the city was ranked number one in 2007 as it has the highest quality of living among other Latin American cities.
- The city of Montevideo holds the distinction of being the host of the very first World Cup back in 1930.
- The Universidad de la Republica is the very first university in the country. It was founded in 1849.
- Gauchos are to the people of Montevideo as cowboys are to the Americans. They have become a strong symbol to the people of Uruguay, the ideal embodiment of honesty, generosity, bravery, strength, loyalty, humility, honor, patience, cleverness, independence and wisdom. These are an ethnic mestizo group that learned to master riding the horse and manage wild cattle that used to live in the prairies during the 16ht and 17 centuries.
- The Anglican Church that the British established in Montevideo in 1844 became the first Protestant church in Spanish America.
- The nearest capital city next to Montevideo is the city of Buenos Aires in Argentina. It is only 144 miles from Montevideo, just across the Rio de la Plata. It only takes 3 hours by ferry or 20 minutes to fly between Montevideo and Buenos Aires.
- ATMs in the country can dispense either the Uruguayan Peso or the US Dollar. The US Dollar is dispensed in 100 dollar denominations.
- Although largely Catholic, the people in Montevideo and Uruguay have a strong separation of state and church. The country’s first constitution listed Catholicism as the official religion although this was removed in 1919. Since 1862, the state controlled of public cemeteries so that even non-Catholics could be buried there. Divorce was legalized in 1907.
References
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Montevideo
http://www.tripadvisor.com/Tourism-g294323-Montevideo-Vacations.html
http://traveltips.usatoday.com/climate-montevideo-uruguay-16170.html
http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/cis/cis_1054.html
http://www.everyculture.com/To-Z/Uruguay.html#b
http://www.discoveruruguay.com/about_uruguay_history.htm
http://www.funtrivia.com/en/subtopics/Uruguay-South-Americas-best-kept-secret-305578.html
http://www.ehow.com/way_5297070_uruguay-business-etiquette.html