World Heritage Site

The Barrio Sur – South Borough, as locals call the Historic Quarter – in Colonia del Sacramento , is the first place in Uruguay to be declared World Heritage Site by UNESCO. The declaration took place in 1995.

Founded in 1680 by the Portuguese Manuel Lobo, the city went from Portuguese dominance to Spanish dominance and vice versa many times until the Declaration of Independence of Uruguay in 1825. These changes in masters made of the capital city of the Departamento of Colonia a crucible where the colonial-Portuguese architecture stands side by side with the colonial-Spanish one.

As one walks along the stone-paved streets its history comes alive in an unparalleled scenery with the Plata River as a magnificent background.

Visitors have always been lured by the houses, the streets and the lamplights along them… and the sunsets.

The Door, which was the only connection between the citadel and the countryside, the Suspiros St. (Sighs St.), the lighthouse, the art galleries and the history treasured inside its museums are only a few of the attractions to be enjoyed.
Access the audio-guide system to know the Historic Quarter of Colonia del Sacramento.

Download a map to the Historic Quarter and downtown Colonia del Sacramento in PDF