The atmosphere of Medieval Europe! The historic quarter of Colonia del Sacramento

A wonderful World Heritage Site in Latin America’s Uruguay that you should definitely visit is “The Historic Quarter of Colonia del Sacramento.” It feels as if you’ve slipped back in time to medieval Europe, a place full of charming atmosphere. Let me introduce the romantic and perfect-for-sightseeing World Heritage Site, “The Historic Quarter of Colonia del Sacramento.”

What Is the Historic Quarter of Colonia del Sacramento?

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the “Historic Quarter of Colonia del Sacramento” in Uruguay, South America, is a very beautiful spot where old colonial-style streets remain, as if you’ve wandered into medieval Europe.

The city of Colonia del Sacramento was built in 1680 by the Portuguese, who had traveled south from Brazil. For about 100 years until it came under Spanish rule in 1777, governance changed hands repeatedly between Spain and Portugal. Because of this history, the city retains a mix of Spanish- and Portuguese-style architecture, allowing you to enjoy a classic, picturesque townscape.

Since it is not a big city like Buenos Aires, the capital of neighboring Argentina, or Montevideo, the capital of Uruguay, its appeal also lies in the ability to leisurely enjoy the medieval European-style scenery without worrying about large crowds.

Access to the Historic Quarter of Colonia del Sacramento

There are two ways to reach the World Heritage city of Colonia del Sacramento in Uruguay, South America: either from Buenos Aires, the capital of neighboring Argentina, or from Montevideo, the capital of Uruguay.

Tourists will first need to reach Buenos Aires or Montevideo via a gateway city that has direct flights from the United States or from Mexico City, the capital of Mexico.

From Buenos Aires, multiple ferries travel to and from Colonia del Sacramento daily, and taking one will get you there in about an hour. From Montevideo, you can reach the city in about two and a half hours by bus.

Recommended Highlights of the Historic Quarter of Colonia del Sacramento ①: Strolling the Old Town

The greatest charm of the World Heritage Site “Historic Quarter of Colonia del Sacramento” in Uruguay, South America, lies in walking through the old town (historic district). Since the city was once ruled by both Portugal and Spain, many buildings with each country’s architectural characteristics still remain. Around the city’s main Plaza Mayor, there are various museums housed in colonial-era buildings where you can learn about the history of the town. Along the cobblestone streets, classic cars still in use are often parked, creating picturesque scenes. There are also many cafés and restaurants, making it lovely to take a break while enjoying the beautiful streetscape.

The daytime scenery is wonderful, but from dusk to night, the town takes on a magical atmosphere, illuminated by distinctive yellow streetlights said to reproduce the color of 18th-century candlelight. Enjoy the streets of Colonia del Sacramento, which show different faces by day and by night.

Recommended Highlights of the Historic Quarter of Colonia del Sacramento ②: The Río de la Plata

Another highlight of the World Heritage Site “Historic Quarter of Colonia del Sacramento” in Uruguay, South America, is the Río de la Plata, which flows between Argentina and Uruguay. Although it is called a “river,” it is actually a vast estuary opening into the Atlantic Ocean. The sight of the setting sun is particularly beautiful, offering a breathtaking view where you can feel the magnificence of nature. It’s a scenery that you should enjoy together with the historic streets of the World Heritage city of Colonia del Sacramento.

◎ Summary

We have introduced the World Heritage Site “Historic Quarter of Colonia del Sacramento” in Uruguay, South America. Compared to other famous tourist destinations in South America, such as the Machu Picchu ruins in Peru or Easter Island in Chile, it attracts fewer visitors, allowing you to enjoy the scenery in a calm and relaxed atmosphere. It is a highly recommended World Heritage Site to visit, where you can be soothed by both beautiful streetscapes and magnificent nature.

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The atmosphere of Medieval Europe! The historic quarter of Colonia del Sacramento