Colonia del Sacramento is a charming city located in southwestern Uruguay. It’s a small but incredibly picturesque town with a rich history that dates back to the 17th century when the city was founded by the Portuguese in 1680. It is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site which protects the old buildings and much of the charm of the town. I recently visited it on a tour from the Viking cruise ship docked in Montevideo. In a big change for me, I’ll illustrate much of this article with impressionistic paintings of the town – I felt that the warmth and softer shapes and tones of these paintings gave a much better feel for what the old town actually felt like.
Most visitors enter the old town via the city gate and drawbridge, known as Puerta de la Ciudadela, and immediately on the left you get a gorgeous view down De San Pedro towards the River Plate, on the far banks of which can be found Buenos Aires.
This shows off one of the most famous sights that you see throughout the town – the antique streetlamps on wooden supports that can be found on almost every corner.
Following the street, you see the historic lighthouse over the flowering shrubs and walls of the town.
As you look up Calle de los Suspiros, which translates to “Street of Sighs,” you’ll notice that the cobblestone streets are lined with colonial-style houses and small shops. This street is one of the most picturesque in the city and is perfect for a leisurely stroll. You’ll also find a few art galleries and souvenir shops along the way.
I’ve got to admit that I left the rest of my tour in the restaurant for lunch to get back to this street and try to photograph it without tourists wandering on the cobblestones. It worked!
Everywhere, there are ancient and solid wooden doors and the famous lanterns:
Next, I headed to the Plaza Mayor, which is the city’s main square. The plaza is surrounded by historic buildings, including this one that is now used as a Portuguese museum:
I was particularly attracted to the old traditional lantern on the corner and thought that would make a great little image or painting in its own right.
Strolling further into the town, I reached the BasÃlica del SantÃsimo Sacramento, which is the city’s oldest church. The church’s interior is not particularly ornate by many European standards, but definitely very peaceful:
I wandered the streets around the square – some of which were packed with locals enjoying their lunch in the shade of restaurant umbrellas:
Just around the corner on De Portugal, I came across this old car, now well populated inside by plants and bushes parked alongside the cobbled street.
As my wander continued, I caught glimpses of the wide estuary of the River Plate seen down a narrow road past a small cafe and bar:
Soon it was time to return to the church to meet my tour guide and party, who by now had enjoyed their dessert! Along the way, I strolled down Manuel Lobo and looked back to see this enchanting view of the street and the overhanging trees (with a lantern, of course).
And as we walked back to the gate and that original view down De San Pedro, I took a closer photo of the lamp and gave it a little treatment to suggest we were there at sunset rather than mid-afternoon.
In conclusion, a walking tour of Colonia del Sacramento is an excellent way to explore the city’s rich history and charming architecture. Whether you’re a history buff or just looking for a relaxing day out, Colonia del Sacramento is a must-visit destination in Uruguay.
Jim Cook
27 Feb 2023Great photos, treatment and commentary, probably best meal you ever skipped!
Steve Heap
27 Feb 2023Yes, I can’t understand why you would ride for 90 minutes on a coach (at least) then spend 1.5 hours in a restaurant eating so-so food when you are fed endlessly on the ship. So I quickly ate the main course and then walked around!
jim hughes
3 Mar 2023My favorite is the one of people eating lunch on the street. I really feel the warmth in those colors.
Steve Heap
4 Mar 2023Yes, that was the first I did – the place lends itself to this sort of treatment!
Steve Estvanik
6 Mar 2023You keep adding to my to-do list!
My main reason for eating meals on excursions is to sample new foods i won’t find on the ship (or more likely, local beers!)
Steve Heap
6 Mar 2023Yes, this was a pretty little place! Not too many local beers as far as I could tell!