Discover the magic of Colonia del Sacramento: the historic city on the River Plate

Colonia del Sacramento is a charming city on the coast of the Rio de la Plata in Uruguay. Here we share with you some places you can’t miss in the city.

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Historic District

It is one of the most popular places and has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1995. If you walk through its cobblestone streets enjoying the Spanish and Portuguese colonial architecture you are sure to feel transported back in time.

The neighborhood is located in the old part of the city, with cobblestone streets and colonial houses that have been preserved in excellent condition.

The Colonia Lighthouse is one of the main attractions of the historic district. It is located at the tip of the city and offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Rio de la Plata and the coast of Uruguay. There are also numerous churches and plazas to explore, including the Iglesia Matriz and Plaza Mayor.

In Colonia del Sacramento’s historic district, there are also several museums that showcase the history and culture of the region. Among them are the Portuguese Museum, the Tile Museum and the Municipal Museum.

Finally, it is worth mentioning that the historic district of Colonia del Sacramento is a very quiet and safe place to visit. With its charming colonial atmosphere and views of the Río de la Plata, it is a popular tourist destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.

Colonia del Sacramento es una ciudad encantadora
Historic District

Matriz Church

It is one of the most emblematic monuments of Uruguay and is located in the heart of the historic city. It was built in the seventeenth century by the Portuguese, but underwent numerous restorations over time, so its architecture is a mixture of styles. The main facade is of Portuguese baroque style, with two bell towers and a triangular pediment. Inside, the temple has a central nave and two side naves, with a simple but elegant decoration.

Among the most outstanding elements of the interior is the main altar, carved in gilded wood and decorated with baroque and rococo elements. Also outstanding are the images of the patron saints of the church, Saint Peter and Saint Paul, as well as the image of Our Lady of the Rosary.

Colonia del Sacramento es una ciudad encantadora
Matriz Church

Tile Museum

It is a small museum that you will also find in the old part of the city, more precisely on Ituzaingó Street.

The building that houses the Tile Museum is an old Portuguese colonial house that has been carefully restored and renovated to become a museum space. The architectural design of the building is an attraction in itself, with high ceilings and thick stone walls.

The museum features a collection of antique tiles and ceramics, which showcase the art left by the Portuguese and Spanish of the 17th, 18th and 19th centuries.

In addition to the collection of tiles and ceramics, the museum has temporary exhibitions and activities related to the history and culture of tiles. There is a small store in the museum where you can buy tile-related products.

Colonia del Sacramento es una ciudad encantadora
Tile Museum
Colonia del Sacramento es una ciudad encantadora
Map of the City of Colonia

Lighthouse of Colonia del Sacramento

It is a white and red tower of 26 meters high located on the peninsula of the city. The lighthouse tower is built of bricks and has a spiral staircase leading to the top.

The lighthouse was built in 1857 and is one of the oldest lighthouses in Uruguay. Originally powered by whale oil, it was converted to an electric lighthouse in 1920. Today, it is a popular tourist attraction, as it offers a panoramic view of the city, the Río de la Plata and the Argentinean coast.

From the lighthouse you have a panoramic view of the city and the Rio de la Plata. It is an excellent place to watch the sunset. The lighthouse also has a small museum at its base, where objects related to the history of the lighthouse and navigation in the area are exhibited. Today, the lighthouse is still operated by the Uruguayan Navy and continues to be an important aid to navigation in the area.

Colonia
Lighthouse of Colonia del Sacramento

Citadel Gate

This gate is one of the few remaining structures of the original citadel, built by the Portuguese in the 17th century. It is an imposing structure at the entrance to the Historic District.

The gate is baroque in style and is made of sandstone. It is approximately 10 meters high and is decorated with a series of coats of arms and emblems carved into the stone. At the top of the door is an image of the Virgin Mary with the baby Jesus.

In addition to its historical value, it offers a spectacular view of the Rio de la Plata and the city.

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Colonia
Puerta de la ciudadela

Portuguese Space, Museum of the Colony

It is a small but interesting museum that focuses on the history of the city and its relationship with the Portuguese. It is located at Enriquez de la Peña 180, in a well-preserved Portuguese colonial house, which gives it an authentic and cozy atmosphere.

Inside the museum, there are several thematic rooms that explore different aspects of the city’s history. For example, there is a room dedicated to the founding of the city and another that focuses on the Portuguese influence on local culture. There is also a room that exhibits objects and tools from the colonial era, such as agricultural tools and kitchen utensils.

In addition to the permanent exhibits, the museum also has temporary exhibits that change regularly. Guided tours in several languages are also available for those who wish to learn more about the history of the city and the museum.

Bullring

Located in the Real de San Carlos area, this is what used to be a bullring, but is now a center for cultural and sporting events.

Built in the 19th century, the bullring was used for bullfights, but is currently in disuse.

It has been restored and converted into a cultural and events center. Some of the spaces have been fitted out to host exhibitions, fairs and concerts. In addition, guided tours are available to learn about its history and architecture. The old bullring is one of the most important tourist attractions in Colonia del Sacramento and a very interesting place to learn about the culture and history of the city.

Colonia
Colonia Bullring

Beaches

We told you that Colonia del Sacramento is a charming city on the coast of the Rio de la Plata and although its beaches are river beaches, there are some options for those who want to enjoy the sun and the river during their visit.

Ferrando Beach

This beach is located at the mouth of the Ferrando Creek and is one of the most popular in the city. It has an expanse of white sand and calm, shallow waters, making it ideal for families with small children. There is also a small dock from where nautical activities such as fishing can be practiced.

Playa El Ensueño

 Located about 20 km west of Colonia del Sacramento, this beach is an option for those looking for a quieter environment. It has an extension of white sand and crystalline waters, ideal for swimming and water sports such as windsurfing.

Playa Los Muelles

This small beach is located in the historic center of Colonia del Sacramento, next to the city’s pier. It is ideal for those looking for a nearby and easily accessible place to enjoy the sun.

Playa Santa Ana

Located in the town of Santa Ana, about 10 km east of Colonia del Sacramento, this beach is ideal for those looking for a quiet place with few people. It has an extension of white sand and shallow and calm waters.

Colonia del Sacramento
Playa de Colonia

Gastronomic offer

Colonia del Sacramento is a charming city with very good gastronomy in Colonia for all tastes and tastes. Not to be missed are the picadas, good wines and the chivitos.

Let us clarify that the chivitos are not goat but grilled beef sandwiches with ingredients such as lettuce, tomato and egg.

There are also places where you can enjoy international cuisine.

Colonia del Sacramento
Tables in the street

Colonia del Sacramento is a city with a lot of charm. Its proximity to the city of Buenos Aires links it strongly and there are numerous travelers who arrive and depart with that destination and also the inhabitants of Buenos Aires (Argentina) who have properties there.