Friday, February 25, 2011

Week 27: Day Trip to Colonia, Uruguay

To renew our tourist visas Emily and I took a day trip to Colonia del Sacramento, Uruguay.  It is just across the river and has an interesting history.  It was founded in 1680 by the Portuguese.  During the 18th century the city went from Spanish rule to Portuguese rule 7 or 8 times and mainly by force.  There is an interesting mix of colonial Spanish and Portuguese homes and beautiful beaches.  Finally in 1828 Uruguay was created putting an end to the power struggles between Portugal and Spain.     

Beach just outside the city
The old city
Old Portuguese road with Portuguese homes
Light house that was built on the ruins of an old convent (or monastery...I can't remember) destroyed during one of the conflicts between S and P.

Old part of the city
Uruguayans are known for collecting antique cars...this is just one of many that we saw all over town
Inside the main and oldest church in the city

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