Colonia del Sacramento, a truly Historic colonial Gem

Colonia del Sacramento is a truly Historic colonial Gem that will impress you. It is a city that attracts travelers from all over the world due to its peaceful atmosphere and harmonious ambience. The old buildings and cobbled alleyways are just some of the beautiful attractions that make this a place of magic and charm in equal measure.

Despite its small size and reputation as a destination for short stays, Colonia offers an array of cultural and gastronomic activities for those looking to relax and enjoy a quiet family holiday, romantic weekend getaway, or some quiet alone time.

Colonia Sacramento, a World Heritage Site.

Locals usually call the place by the shorten name of “Colonia”. There are few people that call the town by its full name. Feel free to call this charming town by the easy way for you to remember.

Location:

Colonia del Sacramento is a city in southwestern Uruguay, by the Río de la Plata, facing Buenos Aires, Argentina. It is one of the oldest towns in Uruguay and capital of the Colonia Department.

Origin:

Founded in 1680 by Portuguese soldiers. It was soon captured by Spanish forces, and it subsequently changed ownership between the two sides several more times. In the early part of the 18th century the city prospered under Portuguese rule, and many structures were erected. Colonia still contains numerous colonial buildings, including the Church of the Holy Sacrament and the San Miguel and Santa Teresa fortresses. A stone building on the main plaza houses the city’s Portuguese Museum. Nearby the small Calle de los Suspiros (“Street of Sighs”) leads to the waterfront.

It was declared a UNESCO world heritage site in 1995.

Places you should visit:

Colonia del Sacramento is one of the most important tourist areas in Uruguay, receiving thousands of visitors during the year. Just an hour from Buenos Aires by boat, and two hours from Montevideo by road. It is a haven where visitors will find culture, history and the magic of an unmissable destination.

Street of Sighs (Calle de los Suspiros):

One of the most picturesque streets in Colonia. The street is very iconic, and you can find it on almost every postcard from the city because it is one of the most original streets dating back to the 17th century which is lined with houses from the colonial period.

Basilica of the Holy Sacrament:

Being one of the oldest church in the country. It was built of stone by the Portuguese in 1808.

Lighthouse in Colonia de Sacramento:

One of the town’s most prominent landmarks, Colonia’s 19th-century working lighthouse provides an excellent view of the old town and the Río de la Plata. It stands within the ruins of the 17th-century Convento de San Francisco, just off the southwest corner of Plaza Mayor 25 de Mayo.

Lighthouse in Colonia de Sacramento.

Plaza de toros Real de San Carlos:

Bullring in Colonia del Sacramento, Uruguay. It is currently a derelict building that is crumbling down. It is forbidden for safety reasons to access the bull ring.

When in operation it could host 10,000 spectators. It is designed in typically Moorish style.

Bastion de San Pedro:

Walk all the way round the coast from the Ferry Port along the old railway track to the town. It’s all clean, tidy and really well looked after. It is very common for Uruguayans to relax with friends in the serene plazas or on the river’s waterfront, have a mate, and simply embrace a pleasant afternoon as the sun drifts by.

Tasting Chivito:

Chivito is a delicious sandwich from Uruguay and the country’s national dish. It is filled with meat – slices of churrasco (grilled/roasted and thinly sliced beef), ham, bacon, tomatoes, lettuce, melted mozzarella, and a topping of fried eggs. The sandwich buns should be quite large, such as ciabatta rolls.

Accommodation:

The best area to stay is The Historic Center. This area has a great variety of hotels, including international hotel chains, boutique hotels and typical inns in colonial houses. It is also the best area for romantic getaways since you can get spectacular views of the sunsets over Rio de la Plata.

Collection of cars in Colonia Sacramento.

Without any doubt Inkayni Peru Tours recommends visiting Colonia del Sacramento. This is Uruguay’s shining star, and a must-visit destination for all travelers who fancy old historical towns with charming centers, spending money in small cute shops, strolling around the marina, and enjoying great dining possibilities. 

What is even better about Colonia is that the town is well accessible either if you plan on traveling around Uruguay, or if you prefer to take only a one-day trip in order to see something new and escape for a while from Argentina’s bustling megapolis, Buenos Aires.

“Travel not to find yourself but to remember who you’ve been all along.”