Montevideo is the capital of the richest country in South America (Uruguay). All about Uruguay Uruguay is the best country in South America

(Spanish Uruguay), official name - Eastern Republic of Uruguay (Spanish Republica Oriental del Uruguay) is a small state in the southeast of the South American continent. In the northeast it borders with (the length of the border is 985 km), in the east it is washed by the Atlantic Ocean, in the west and south it borders with (579 km), which runs along the river (Spanish Río de la Plata; “Silver River”) and (Spanish: Río Uruguay; from which the country got its name). More precisely, La Plata is a narrow, long bay of the Atlantic Ocean, which was mistaken for a large river by the first Spanish expeditions.

The name of the country Uruguay comes from the Indian language and literally translates as “river where the bird lives.” The length of the land borders is 1564 km, the length of the coastline is 660 km.

The territory of the state, whose area is only 176.2 thousand km², is home to about 3.5 million people, of which 85% are urban, 15% are rural. The capital is a city.

Uruguay's network of roads and expressways is considered the densest in South America.

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general information

State structure: It is a parliamentary republic. The head of state and government is the President, popularly elected for a term of 5 years, and he does not have the right to be re-elected for a second consecutive term.

The administrative-territorial division of the country is 19 departments.

The state parliament, which develops and passes laws, consists of a bicameral General Assembly: the upper House - the Senate (30 seats), the lower House - the House of Representatives (99 seats). Members of Parliament are also elected by popular vote for a 5-year term. The President himself forms the Cabinet of Ministers, the composition of which is approved by the General Assembly. Current President - (Spanish: Tabart Ramjn Vfzquez Rosas)

In Uruguay, in addition to many small parties, there are 2 leading ones: the Colorado Party (Spanish: Partido Colorado, meaning “Red Party”) and the National Blanco Party (Spanish: PartidoBlanco, “White”). Both parties were founded in the 1830s; their founders were prominent military leaders - the Uruguayan general Jose Fructuoso Rivera(Spanish: Jose Fructuoso Rivera y Toscana; 1784 – 1854) and General Manuel Oribe (Spanish: Manuel Ceferino Oribe y Viana; 1792 – 1857)

State language: The official language of Uruguay is Spanish. The majority of the country's residents speak English fluently. The few native Indians found in some areas are native speakers of traditional languages. On the border with Brazil they communicate in a special dialect based on a mixture of Spanish and Portuguese.

Religion: More than half of the population (66%) profess the Catholic faith. Many local residents consider themselves atheists or agnostics, this group of the population amounts to about 30%. There are also Jews, about 2%. A small number of adherents of ancient pagan cults have survived in the country, mainly local Indians and people from Africa.

Currency: Monetary unit: Uruguayan peso (UYU) = 100 centesimos. Banknotes in circulation include the following denominations: 1, 10, 50, 100, 200, 500 and 1000 pesos. Metal coins: 1, 5, 10 and 50 centesimo.

Population

The population is mainly represented by Uruguayans - descendants of the Spanish conquistadors, as well as immigrants from Europe: Spaniards, Italians, French. Due to the almost complete extermination of the indigenous population during the colonial wars, the indigenous Indian population is very small.

The ethnic composition of the population of Uruguay is approximately as follows: 88% are white (immigrants from European countries), 8% are mestizo, 4% are black and mulatto.

Excursion into History

The Spaniards appeared on the territory of present-day Uruguay in the 16th century, when the country, like most other South American states, became part of the colonial empire of Spain. Before Spanish expansion, these places were inhabited by the indigenous Chana and Charrua Indian tribes. In order to protect against raids by smugglers and filibusters, in 1724 the Spanish conquistadors founded the city of Montevideo (Spanish: San Felipe y Santiago de Montevideo), which later became the capital of the state.

In 1776 Uruguay became part of the Spanish Viceroyalty of Rio de La Plata(Spanish: Virreinato del Río de la Plata), and in 1778 Spain granted Montevideo the right to free trade, which was a great impetus for accelerating the economic development of both the city and the state as a whole. At that time, the territory of modern Uruguay was called Eastern lane(Spanish: Banda Oriental). Many migrants began to flock there, in the 19th century. Montevideo already had more than 30 thousand inhabitants.

Handsome Montevideo

The national liberation movement was growing in the country. In 1811, the liberation army led by (Spanish: Jose Gervasio Artigas; 1764-1850) defeated the Spanish troops. The struggle for independence, which has continued for many years, led to new clashes between Argentina and Brazil. The territory of Uruguay was part of Brazil for some time and was occupied by the Portuguese army. The country was then annexed by Argentina, and in 1828 Argentina and Brazil signed an agreement to renounce claims to this territory and create an independent state. In 1830, a Constitution was adopted, which proclaimed the formation of the Eastern Republic of Uruguay (Spanish: Republica Oriental del Uruguay).

The modern history of the state is marked by a series of crisis situations, incl. and the era of the Great Depression of 1929. Gradually, the political and economic situation in the state stabilized, and by the end of the 20th century. Uruguay began to assert itself more and more confidently as one of the most developed countries in South America.

Economy

Uruguay is one of the most economically developed countries in South America. The basis of the economy is agriculture and processing of agricultural products; the country is focused on exporting agricultural, livestock and fishing products.

Agricultural land occupies almost 90% of the territory of Uruguay (of which about 14 million hectares are pastures), on which many crops are grown, the most popular of which are rice, wheat, corn, sugar cane, oilseed flax, olives, sunflowers, as well as citrus and grape. Livestock farming is developed: beef cattle and wool sheep are bred here. The main branches of local industry: food, meat-packing, canning, wine-making.

Of particular note are the actively developing textile and leather-footwear industries, which is a consequence of excellent performance in the field of livestock breeding. About 75% of all industrial enterprises are concentrated in Montevideo.

In recent years, banking has become increasingly important in the Uruguayan economy. Since Uruguay has beautiful beaches, tourism is actively developing.

Features of geographical location, natural conditions

The state is located on the Atlantic coast, in the southeastern part Brazilian plateau(Spanish: Planalto Brasileiro), which decreases to the southwest. There are no high mountains on the territory of the state: the highest point of Uruguay is Mount Catedral (Spanish: Cerro Catedral; 514 m). From north to south in the eastern part of the country stretches the small hill of Cuchilla Grande (Spanish: Cuchilla Grande; up to 300 m), in the north-west of Uruguay - Cuchilla de Haedo (Spanish: Cuchilla de Haedo; up to 274 m). Between these two hills lies the valley of the Rio Negro River (Spanish: Río Negro; lit. "Black River").

The Atlantic coast is low-lying, with many lagoons and dunes.

The natural landscape of Uruguay is not particularly diverse; most of the state's territory is a monotonous alternation of hills and steppes, turning into the Argentine pampa, which is very suitable for pastures, of which there are a huge number in Uruguay.

Climate

The country is located in a zone of temperate subtropical, oceanic climate - mild, moderately humid. Winters here are mild and short, frosts are extremely rare, and summers are warm. In summer, average temperatures (January-February) are +23-25°C, in winter (July-August) + 8-10°C.

The maximum amount of rain occurs in the autumn period, June-September. During the invasion of strong currents of southern winds (pampero), there are short-term nighttime drops in temperature, down to −5°C, in such cases frost formation is observed.

A significant part of the beaches of Uruguay - more than 600 km of the Atlantic Ocean - are wonderful, sandy. The beach season here lasts from December to March.

Flora and fauna

The local flora is not very diverse. The territory of Uruguay is dominated by herbaceous vegetation: hills covered with grass are beautiful natural pastures that still retain their pristine character. In the south there is a shrubby savanna, in the east there are palm groves.

Only about 4% of the state's territory is covered with forests (mostly deciduous), which is less than in other South American countries. Forests stretch in green ribbons along the western river valleys, meeting in the northwestern hills. The most important tree species include astronium, rosewood, mesquito, guava, cedar, willow and acacia. Of the trees growing here, mostly all are imported, especially valuable species such as eucalyptus, plane tree, pine, and oak. The east coast dunes are planted with pine and eucalyptus trees to protect the sandy soils from landslides and erosion. In some places you can find a rare, amazing giant ombu tree (Phytolacca dioica), which was once characteristic of the Argentine pampa. Unfortunately, recently there are fewer and fewer forests.

When the Spanish settlers first began to explore the territory of Uruguay, there were many deer, pumas, tapirs, rheas, seals, and all kinds of birds. As Europeans moved deeper into the continent, most of these animals were destroyed. Today, the remains of wild fauna are concentrated in inaccessible areas and forests. Representatives of the current local fauna include puma, tapir, pea (American ostrich), wild boar, deer, Pampas cat, fox, armadillo and anteater.

The most common bird species in Uruguay are the swan, crane, stork, heron, wild duck, cardinal, vulture, darter, rabbit owl, lapwing and hummingbird. All kinds of spiders, reptiles and reptiles are found in abundance, including the rattlesnake and viper. Since Uruguay lies on the ocean coast, the local fauna is characterized by a rich variety of marine life.

Attractions

The main attractions of small Uruguay are concentrated mainly in the capital, Montevideo. This city is famous for its magnificent colonial-era buildings, a large number of parks and museums.

The most interesting places in the city are the squares Plaza Constitución and the Palacio Salvo, the ancient churches of the Cabildo and Iglesia Matriz. To become more fully acquainted with the history of the country, it is worth visiting National Historical Museum of Uruguay And Natural History Museum.

The city is home to the tallest building in South America, the 26-story Palacio Salvo (Spanish: Palacio Salvo).

Once in Uruguay, you should visit the Santa Teresa or Cabo Polono National Parks, and, of course, soak up the ocean beaches.

Uruguay: Largest cities

Uruguay is characterized by a high degree of urbanization, with the capital (Montevideo) home to about 50% of the country's total population.

Curious facts

• Uruguay is the Latin American equivalent of Switzerland: calm, quiet, almost complete absence of crime.

  

• The locals are very emotional, friendly and welcoming. When they meet, they love to kiss. Moreover, if strangers simply rub their cheeks, imitating a kiss, then acquaintances kiss tastefully, for real.
• It is difficult to meet blacks or Indians here. The main population of Uruguay are descendants of white settlers and emigrants from the Old World.
• The country pays great attention to education. For example, Uruguay is the first South American country to sell laptops to children for $100. This, however, was not always the case; relatively recently, up to 40% of the population was illiterate here.
• Although it is difficult to find work here, it is quite easy to open your own business here. You can, for example, buy a plantation inexpensively and grow olives.
• Local officials are friendly, they are very calm, they never raise their voices. If you are opening your own business, they will not throw stones in the wheels; on the contrary, they will help you in every possible way.
• Many retirees from the United States move to South America, including Uruguay: it is quiet, peaceful, and the pension is about $1,000.
• One funny thing happens here: if you move into a house and no one “asks” you to leave for a month, you can officially register the house in your name. Great! But they can do the same with your home, so it’s better not to leave your house for a long time without security in Uruguay.
• For example, in the center of Piriapolis (Spanish: Piriapolis) - in a beautiful town near Montevideo, there is an abandoned hotel worth more than $500 thousand, with which the owner cannot do anything, because... several homeless people “moved in” to it.
• Uruguayans are often called “Muy amables”, in Russian this means something like “kind, cordial, friendly”. In fact, they are very attentive to others and are always ready to help. It seems that in this country even the dogs are friendly and polite.
• In general, the locals are very relaxed and serene people; no one is in a hurry. All Uruguayans love to sleep in a hammock.
• It’s not for nothing that Uruguay is called “The Land of Eternal Mañana” (Spanish la Mañana; means “tomorrow”). In fact, “tomorrow” for them is a very flexible concept, from the real “tomorrow” to infinity.
• The state constitution proclaims freedom of religion. The main religion of the Uruguayans is... football. It’s not enough to say that Uruguay loves football; the national football team is truly an object of adoration and close attention. Suffice it to say that a tiny country in the 20th century. won 19 (!) international football titles.
• Children are loved here very much, they are carried in their arms and kissed constantly. In Uruguay you almost never see crying children! And if any child cries, then it is definitely a child of newcomers - he has not yet acclimatized. And when Uruguayan children grow up, they carry their parents in their arms and kiss them often.
• Uruguayans say goodbye to the passing year in a unique way - they tear up and throw calendars out the windows, not really bothering where the scraps fall. Thank you at least for the fact that they do not throw furniture and all old rubbish out of the windows, as is customary in Italy.
• In Uruguay, the division of labor is not a means to increase productivity, but serves exclusively to increase employment of the population: here one saleswoman weighs, another wraps, and a third accepts money.
• There are practically no “bespectacled” or bald people in the country.
• People with so-called “disabilities” are treated very carefully here.
• In most countries in the world, drunk driving is severely punished, but not in Uruguay! Here, on the contrary, in case of violation of traffic rules, the state of intoxication can serve as a mitigating circumstance for the offender.
• In Uruguay, medicine is free, even for tourists; you only have to pay one doctor - the dentist.
• There is a law according to which all citizens automatically become organ donors after death, however, with the exception of those persons who have expressed their disagreement in writing in advance.
• The state is famous for its huge number of sheep and cattle; with a population of 3.5 million people, according to statistics, there are on average 3 cows and 5 sheep for every Ecuadorian!
• 
  Gambling, prostitution, marijuana and same-sex marriage are legalized here.
• Even in small things, Uruguayans try to emphasize their difference from the Argentines. In both countries, meat is consumed in incredible quantities, but if in Argentina it is cooked mainly on coals, then in Uruguay it is cooked exclusively on wood. In both places, the meat is fried on a metal grill (parrilla). But if in Argentina it is installed horizontally, then in Uruguay it is installed only at an angle!
• “We,” local residents proudly say, “have the best and most environmentally friendly beef in the world!”
• Due to the good education and good manners of the local population, small, friendly Uruguay is often compared to Switzerland; because of the welfare of the people and the careful preservation of age-old traditions - with Sweden; thanks to the abundance of lush pastures and numerous flocks of sheep - with New Zealand!

Uruguay- a country in southeastern South America. It borders on Brazil to the north and east, Argentina to the west, and is washed by the Atlantic Ocean to the east and south.

The name of the country comes from the Uruguay River, which means “river” in the local Indian language.

Official name: Eastern Republic of Uruguay

Capital: Montevideo

The area of ​​the land: 176.2 thousand sq. km

Total Population: 3.5 million people

Administrative division: The state is divided into 19 departments.

Form of government: Republic.

Head of State: The president.

Population composition: 88% are from Europe, 8% are mestizo, 4% are African.

Official language: Spanish, on the border with Brazil, is a dialect based on a mixture of Spanish and Portuguese.

Religion: 66% are Catholics, 2% are Protestants, 2% are Jews, about 30% of the population do not profess any religion.

Internet domain: .uy

Mains voltage: ~220 V, 50 Hz

Country dialing code: +598

Country barcode: 773

Climate

The country's subtropical climate is temperate. Since Uruguay is located between 30 and 35° S. in a narrow part of the continent, its climate is transitional between the temperate zone and the tropics.

Winters here are short and mild, frosts are extremely rare. The average temperature of the coldest winter month, July, is about 10° C. Thanks to this, livestock can graze all winter and do not need expensive wintering quarters.

Summers are warm, with average January temperatures ranging from 22-27° C. Sometimes on hot and humid days the temperature rises above 38° C, but the heat is more bearable thanks to the cool daytime breeze.

Rain falls more or less evenly throughout the year, and its total amount increases from south to north from 970 mm in the La Plata estuary area to 1270 mm in the far north. The maximum rainfall occurs in autumn, but at least 125–150 mm of precipitation falls during the season.

Geography

Uruguay is a country in the southeastern part of South America, on the coast of the Atlantic Ocean. It borders on Brazil in the north, Argentina in the west, and is washed by the Atlantic Ocean in the east and south. Area 176,220 sq. km. The total length of the border is 1564 km (the length of the borders with Argentina is 579 km, with Brazil - 985 km). Coastline: 660 km.

The highest point is Mount Catedral (Cerro Catedral) 514 m. Hilly areas to the south are gradually replaced by lowlands, which are a continuation of the Argentine pampa. The coasts of Uruguay are low-lying, leveled, and of the lagoon type.

Flora and fauna

Vegetable world

The zonal vegetation of the main part of Uruguay is tallgrass prairie. The bluish-colored grasslands provide excellent natural pastures and still retain much of their original character. On the hills, tall grasses give way to less nutritious low turf species.

Forests cover about 4% of Uruguay's territory - less than in any other South American country. They stretch in ribbons along the valleys of western rivers, primarily the Rio Negro, and are found in the northwestern hills. The most important tree species include astronium, rosewood, guava, mesquito, zedreda, oak, willow and acacia.

In the southeast of the country, in the vicinity of the cities of Minas and Rocha, native palm species are found among the prairie; The east coast dunes are home to pine and eucalyptus trees, planted to protect sandy soils from erosion. In some places you can find the ombu tree, which was once characteristic of the Argentine pampa.

Animal world

When the Spaniards first began to explore the territory of Uruguay, there were relatively many pumas, tapirs, deer, seals, as well as rheas and many other birds. During the development of the country by Europeans, most of these animals became extinct. The remains of wild fauna are concentrated in forests and inaccessible areas.

Common mammals include deer, pampas cat, puma, pea (American ostrich), tapir, wild boar, fox, feral cat, armadillo, anteater. and various rodents. Common birds include wild ducks, swan, heron, vulture, crane, hummingbird, rabbit owl, darter, parrots, partridges, storks, cardinals and lapwings.

Attractions

• Plaza Independencia
• Palacio Salva
• Cathedral Montevideo
• Positos
• Lobos
• Laguna Sauce

Banks and currency

Uruguayan peso (international designation - UYU, domestically - U$), equal to 100 centesimos. In circulation there are banknotes of 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, 500, 1000 and 2000 pesos, as well as coins of 50 centesimo and 1, 2, 5 and 10 pesos.

Banks are open from 10.00 to 16.00 on weekdays.

Money can be exchanged in banks (the most favorable rate), exchange offices at travel agencies and shopping centers, in hotels, and at the airport. Most major international credit cards are accepted in hotels and shopping centers. Uruguayan ATMs do not accept North American or European credit cards. There is no black market for currency.

Useful information for tourists

A chain of fashionable resorts stretches along the ocean coast of Montevideo and the Bay of La Plata, the most famous of which is Punta del Este.

The capital of the country, Montevideo, is also popular - a large banking and financial center, a city in which classicism is combined with widespread baroque, modernism with old buildings from colonial times. Ultra-modern buildings are surrounded by parks and beautiful bridges connecting the banks of the great river.

Also interesting thermal springs, well-equipped ocean coast, the cities of Piriapolis and Colonia. There are about 10 national parks in the country.

Tips in expensive restaurants and bars amount to up to 10% of the bill (although often this already includes a service charge), in cheap eateries - 1-2 pesos, in cafes and on the beach it is not customary to tip, but should be given to a porter at a hotel or airport 5-10 pesos, the taxi driver's bill is rounded up (when using cars of different brands, the amount may vary, a separate fee will be charged for turning on the air conditioning).

Uruguay is a completely mysterious country. It's as if nothing ever happens in it. The waters of the Atlantic Ocean wash numerous quiet villages; the capital with a romantic name (I See Mountains) hardly appears in the world news. Although travelers sometimes drop in to see life in the most comfortable country in South America, most often they hurry further, to more famous neighbors. And, in my opinion, they miss a lot.

Uruguay is one of those countries where there are practically no unique ancient monuments, preserved ethnic tribes with their amazing traditions, but there is an absolutely amazing modernity: kind, welcoming, with year-round holidays, wonderful food, Sunday flea markets and a real southern taste for life. I came to Uruguay for one week in February and stayed for several months.

Visa and border crossing

Russian citizens do not need a visa to visit Uruguay. When crossing the border, you only need to present your passport, which will be stamped with an entry stamp. You can stay in the country for no more than 90 days within six months.

Customs regulations in Uruguay are quite strict. It is allowed to import into the country up to two liters of alcoholic beverages, 400 cigarettes or 50 cigars, and up to 5 kg of food.

Prohibited for import:

• perishable products,
• animal food,
• fruits and vegetables,
• flowers, plants and seeds,
• meat and fish,
• ammunition and firearms,
• drugs,
• animal skins and stuffed animals,
• pornographic materials and obscene objects.

You can take your pet with you to Uruguay. To do this, you must have a veterinary certificate with you, issued in accordance with international rules and received at least a month before the trip.

Uruguay is an incredibly calm and lovely country with kind and polite people. In particular, customs and passport control are often quick and pleasant.

How to get there

An airplane is the only way to get from Russia to Uruguay.

By plane

Due to the length of the flight, there are no direct scheduled flights to Montevideo. Most often, travelers from Russia fly through the budget Spanish airline Iberia, which often runs sales in the spring and fall.

Please note that if the flight you choose involves more than 1 stopover in the Schengen area, you will need a Schengen visa. Just like if you want to leave the airport during a layover in Europe.

Northern region(Northern interior) borders Argentina and Brazil, therefore it is highly dependent on the “rhythms” of neighboring countries. For example, in the area bordering Brazil they speak a very special Spanish-Portuguese language, Portuñol. Near Argentina you can find settlements of gauchos - South American cowboys.

The North is perhaps the most ethnically colorful part of the country. People come here to see folk culture, which has hardly been preserved in modern southern resort regions. In the south you can find beautiful beaches, but never cowboys on horses. The main cities of the northern region: Salto, Paysandu, Tacuarembo, Rivera.

central region(Central interior) is known for its rich agricultural lands, the Rio Negro River, fields, meadows, green areas, breathtaking nature reserves, orange groves.

This is the quietest, most spacious, calm part of the country. Travelers come here for the opportunity to ride river boats and horses, have picnics, and enjoy harmony with nature and ringing silence. Main cities of the center: Durasno, Paso de los Toros, .

Rio de la Plata- a region in the southwest of the country, named after the bay, on the shores of which the 2 most important cities of Uruguay are located: the capital and the oldest city of the country, Colonia del Sacramento. On the other side of the Rio de la Plata is where ferries depart hourly. Of course, Rio de la Plata is deservedly the main tourist Mecca.

If what you love most when traveling is walking through the main cities of the country with their historical center, quiet colonial alleys and at the same time developed modern life, you should not hesitate to go to this region of Uruguay.

Atlantic coast- a resort part of Uruguay beloved by vacationers from all over the world. It begins to the east with the town of Piriapolis and ends with the border settlement of Chuy, half of which already belongs to Brazil. The “high” beach season here is quite short and falls exactly in our winter.

Believe me, the Atlantic coast of Uruguay exceeds all resort expectations. In addition to the excellent beaches, travelers from all over the world come here to see sea lions, hang out with hippies, walk along the sand dunes and simply admire the unusually bright and at the same time natural colors of the surrounding world.

It so happened that when I visited Montevideo in February, I found myself in a real festival cycle. At first, colonies of cheerful dark-skinned drummers walked throughout the city, interspersed with luxurious carnival caravans. It turned out that this is the annual and largest festival in the country, Las Llamadas de Montevideo. Llamadas translated means Signals, calls.

As local residents explained, during the Spanish colonization, African slaves living nearby developed a secret communication system. They sent messages to each other using drumbeats. After gaining freedom, they came up with a festival celebrating primitive music and the joys of independence.

No sooner had the drums died down in the center of the capital than all the Uruguayans rushed to the water. Montevideo is located on the shores of La Plata Bay (locals call it the Sea of ​​Uruguay), where, by a lucky coincidence, the Yemanja Festival is also held in February - the festival of the goddess of the sea and fertility, the patroness of sailors and women in labor, and the savior of shipwrecked people.

In the morning, the entire city was filled with sales tents with foam boats, perfumes, jewelry and flowers. In the evening, a mystical action began: in the rays of the setting sun, believers in white robes began to plunge into the water, bow and launch boats with gifts to Yemanje along the river. Then the real port fun began: with picnics, music, dancing, candles.

For me, Montevideo is a very cheerful city, where one incredibly emotional event gives way to another. And I highly advise you to visit it in February - the most joyful South American month.

• Colonia del Sacramento is a tiny but incredibly romantic port town founded by the Portuguese. It could be called a typical European old town if it were not in Uruguay. But, however, the difference here is only continental. Throughout history, the colony was passed from hand to hand by the Portuguese and Spaniards, and to this day it retains a nice European flavor: cobbled streets, moss-overgrown houses, ancient basilicas, fortress walls, a lighthouse, antique cars, small street cafes with wrought-iron chairs, artists' shops. The colony gives you the feeling of walking through the mighty Middle Ages. For this alone, it’s worth visiting it at least for a day.

• Somersault is the main city in the northwestern part of the country with a population of 100 thousand people. It is located on the coast of the Uruguay River, with the Argentine city of Concordia on the opposite bank. Between them stretches the Salto Grande Bridge, which is revered by travelers from all over the world. Salto is a peaceful, quiet town with few attractions. It's worth coming there for the magnificent scenery that surrounds it. You will see picturesque lagoons, majestic mountains, spacious fields. Well, the most important thing why people go to Salto is the luxurious thermal springs right within the city.

• Paysandu is located near Salto, also on the coast of the Uruguay River and with the Argentine neighborhood on the other side. The international bridge “General Artigas” was built between Paysandu and the city of Colon (). If Salto is an idyllic city, then Paysandu is dynamic. In the center, on Constitution Square, parades, holidays, and theatrical performances take place all the time. And during Easter week, for 9 whole days, everyone has fun at the annual international beer festival.

• Tacuarembo in the north of the country it has the reputation of being the cultural capital of Uruguay and is considered the birthplace of the most famous writers, poets, artists and musicians. It has many museums, galleries and other exhibition spaces. The world's leading tango singer, Carlos Gardel, brought Tacuarembo his greatest fame. The Uruguayans insist that he was not born in Toulouse (as official sources say), but in Tacuarembo. Fans of the local football team display a flag at matches that reads "Tacuarembo is Gardel."

• Rivera neighbors Brazil and is famous for its glossy life: gambling houses, casinos, excellent hotels, first-class service, surfing, diving, sea ​​cruises. World standards reign everywhere. The main bonus of Rivera for tourists is that the warm weather persists here throughout the year, unlike the south coast, where the season is quite short.

• Paso de los Toros located in central Uruguay on the northern bank of the Rio Negro River. Actually, thanks to this river, the city became a tourist center. Here you can fish, sleep in a tent, go boating, and sunbathe on freshwater beaches. It is also the birthplace of the famous Uruguayan writer Mario Benedetto. In your free time from river leisure, you can visit its museum.

• Durasno– one of the greenest cities in Uruguay. It is located right in the center of the country and, thanks to its good climate, is surrounded by flowers, bushes and trees all year round. Durasno is famous for its folk festivities, which are reminiscent in spirit of generous village holidays. Lots of food, music (drums sound literally at every turn), ethnic performances of gaucho cowboys. It’s a paradox, but it is in the aptly simple-minded and carnival-like Durasno that the largest shopping center in the country is located.

• – there is a city with this name in almost every Spanish-speaking country, because translated it is “Trinity”, and the Spaniards and South Americans are very religious. Moreover, everywhere it contains special treasures of the country. In Uruguayan Trinidad, for example, there are ancient caves with Grutas del Palacio frescoes. Local residents say that the mysterious caves were created by the Indians before the European invasion of the continent. Archaeologists insist that the age of the caves significantly exceeds the age of the civilizations of South America. In any case, they are worth visiting for all fans and experts of ancient history.

Top resorts

The main resorts of Uruguay are concentrated in the southern part of the country. Most often, travelers fly to Montevideo, then move along the Atlantic coast east of the capital and through a series of port towns and villages experience the extraordinary spirit of the country.

• Piriapolis is the very first resort in Uruguay, which, in my opinion, is the golden mean between elite luxury villages and quiet forgotten fishing villages. Piriapolis is moderately calm and moderately lively. There is a casino, a promenade, and restaurants. And at the same time, the city managed to preserve its natural beauty: green hills, picturesque mountain peaks, clear ocean waters, healing hot springs.

• Punta del Este- this is the most prestigious of the resorts in Uruguay, which can be compared with the Spanish Marbella. They really are similar: high-rise buildings, snow-white sand, restaurants, life is in full swing, everything is clean and expensive. Personally, I prefer quiet, naive, unsettled port villages. But this is a matter of taste. Punto del Este copes well with its function as a luxury resort. First-class hotels in Uruguay, amazing beaches, spa treatments, golf courses, nightclubs, yachts.

• La Barra is located just a few kilometers from Punta del Este. This is a cozy, cute, centuries-old fishing village that will appeal to all lovers of fine art. It so happened that this is where a lot of workshops, antique shops, art galleries, and flea markets open every year. Even the fishermen's houses in La Barra are painted in all the colors of the rainbow.

• La Paloma(“Dove”) is a quiet resort town in Uruguay, famous for its wide, spacious coastline (22 kilometers), modern well-kept one-story houses, whales frolicking in the ocean, silence, and a variety of beaches: from calm sandy areas to sharp rocky outcrops. If you are traveling by car, I advise you to stop in Paloma for a day to enjoy plenty of swimming.

• Cabo Polonio is a cape inhabited by fishermen, which is considered one of the quietest places on the planet. There is no network coverage here, no electricity or running water. After sunset, the light comes from the stars, a lighthouse, candles and lonely lanterns. The most important thing is that day and night you can hear the rumbling of fur seals and the cries of seagulls that surround this very lighthouse. They say that Cabo Polonio, as one of the most romantic places on the continent, is the country's artistic elite.

• Barra de Valisas is a tiny hippie village with one store, an evening market, fishermen, the ocean, hammocks and nightly bonfires. Out of a month in Uruguay, I lived there for two weeks, in the modest but desperately good-natured hostel Deja Vu. His owner, Facundo, scolded me severely on the first day when I tried to cook a steak in the communal kitchen. He shook his head sadly for a long time and walked around the house with an incense stick. Valisas, as it turned out later, is an ecological vegetarian village. It is forbidden to build high-rise buildings, travel by transport, or eat meat. Everyone lives in funny colored wooden houses, plays homemade instruments, cooks over a fire and enjoys the simplest things. In a word, a wonderful place.

• Punta del Diablo- This is another calm, blessed place that does not at all live up to its terrifying name (Devil's Cape). The devil is, of course, not the peaceful village or the wonderful fishermen who inhabit it. And the mighty ocean itself. Devil's Cape is an amazingly soulful village where the smell of pine trees, the paths to the ocean are overgrown with wild grass, the beaches turn into dunes, the old houses are cheerfully painted, the population of 800 people fishes and practices ancient crafts. There are no expensive restaurants or hotels here. And in general there is almost nothing, but for some reason I don’t want to leave the serene comfort of the “Devil’s” at all.

Top attractions

• Laguna de Rocha– this is a protected nature reserve (near the village of La Paloma) with total area more than 22 thousand hectares, located just 100 meters from the ocean. I highly recommend visiting it for lovers of green spaces, birds, cleanliness and sea creatures. Dolphins, whales, turtles, and otters nest here. A magical place with a full feeling of merging with the natural world and the nature of the planet.

• Monument "Fingers"- an unusual beach sculpture in the most famous resort town of Uruguay, Punta Del Este. These are gigantic fingertips emerging from the sand. They exceed three meters in height. The author of such an unusual modern sculpture is native Mario Irrazabal, who created it in literally 6 days back in 1982. All travelers adore “Fingers” for their gigantism, uniqueness and never-revealed symbolism.

• Casapueblo(Village House) is a stunning house built in 1960 by the famous Uruguayan artist Carlos Pez Vilar. It is located in the tiny village of Punta Ballena (Cape of the Whale) 12 kilometers from the resort area of ​​Punta del Este. The house was visited by such celebrities as Pablo Picasso, Brigitte Bardot, Pele. Vilar designed special personalized rooms for them. The extraordinary Uruguayan structure is often compared to the works of the famous Spaniard Gaudi. Indeed, there are many similarities: bizarre shapes, the absence of straight and perpendicular lines, wavy towers and balconies, mysterious passages and labyrinths. Construction lasted more than 30 years. It is known that the artist did not use drawings or sketches. Today, Casapueblo rises above the Atlantic Ocean as a graceful, discontinuous white cliff. There is a house-museum of the artist, as well as a cafe, restaurant and hotel. Entrance ticket – $7.

• Estevez Palace- one of the most interesting buildings in the capital of the country from the point of view of the history of Uruguay and the mixture of architectural styles. The Estevez Palace is located in the very center, on Independence Square. It combines Doric and Colonial styles. Once upon a time there was a presidential residence here, then a museum of presidential gifts (a rather unusual idea). Now the Estevez Palace houses the remains of the national hero José Artigas.

• Colored Pencil Museum– located on a quiet street, in a small building, a family museum in Colonia Del Sacramento. It houses the largest collection of colored pencils in the world (14,300 items). And besides, household items from the 50s, a gramophone, old photographs. Visiting is free. Moreover, most often the museum owner demonstrates the exhibits with his own hands.

• Hotel "Argentina"- the largest hotel in South America when it opened in 1930. Located in the resort town of Piriapolis. The hotel had its own railway tracks, along which the freshest food products were delivered. Everything, even spoons and forks, was transported from developed Europe. The first beauty salons on the continent opened here. Free admission.

• Lobos Island– a welcoming place that you simply can’t help but like, because it is here that the largest population of southern sea lions on the continent lives (about 200 thousand). The island is located just 10 km from the coast of Punta del Este. When you arrive there on a boat, it seems that the entire planet is populated by swimming, jumping, sunbathing, and purring sea lions. They are so loud that if you want to say something to each other, you have to shout.

• Grand Park Central- home stadium of the famous football club"Nacional", which today seats 26 thousand people. Park Central was one of the stadiums that hosted the very first FIFA World Cup in 1930. It has 4 main stands, which are named after outstanding players of the national team. I warmly recommend it to all football fans.

• National Museum of Fine Arts (Museo nacional de artes visuales) – the most famous art museum in Uruguay, located in Calle Tomas Garibaldi. a traveler can find there both famous names (Picasso, Serrano) and meet Uruguayan masters (Rafael Barradas, Joaquin Torres, Jose Cuneo). I advise you to go to the museum on one of the first days of your trip; it will help you feel the incredible love of local residents for their country.

• Monastery of Saint Francis is located in the city of Colonia Del Sacramento (177 km from) and dates back to 1638. To be honest, all that remains of the monastery are thick medieval walls, which, however, make a great impression at least with their surprisingly good masonry. In the 19th century, a sea lighthouse was built on the foundation of the monastery, illuminating the way for ships. This is a place where you should definitely go in the evening. In the sunset light, the ruins of the monastery look very fascinating.

Weather

Uruguay is located in the southern hemisphere, therefore, the summer months there are considered to be the period from December to February (average temperature 24-26 degrees), the coldest month is July (temperatures can drop to 10 degrees). Throughout the year there is high humidity, about 75%.

My trip around the country took place entirely in February. Every day I sang praises to the climate of Uruguay. Warm ocean, hot, but not sultry. The rain was sporadic and pleasant. No cold wind, no sweltering afternoon, no sudden temperature changes. In Russian winter, the climate in Uruguay is ideal.

However, if you find yourself in Uruguay this summer, you shouldn’t be upset either. It’s just that in this case it’s more logical to go to the north of the country. It is warmer there and, for example, in Salto there are wonderful warming thermal springs.

During the year, Uruguay is visited by about three million tourists. Mostly from neighboring Argentina and Brazil. During the season (from December to March), the main tourist flow falls on the most popular resort of Punta del Este.

In other months, the number of tourists practically does not decrease, but is no longer concentrated on the beach, but in cities with a beautiful historical center and year-round festivals. The weather from March to November (on average about 20 degrees) is perfect for excursions or independent walks.

Moving around the country

Buses. Uruguay is a developed, modern country with 2,300 kilometers of excellent roads and a well-established system public transport. The most popular, comfortable and economical way to travel is by bus. There are more than 80 bus companies operating in the country. Within five hours you can get from the capital to almost any city.

SUVs. An interesting transport situation has developed with ecological fishing settlements on the Atlantic coast of the country (Cabo Polonio, Valisas, Punto del Diablo). Between them, SUVs travel instead of buses, as the road passes through country roads, forests and sand dunes. There are schedules at special stops, and any village resident will show you the way to them.

Trains. 3 thousand kilometers have been built in the country railways, but they are used primarily for freight transport.

Aircraft. There are 2 local airlines flying within the country: Aeromas and BQB. The most popular destinations: from Salto (the second largest city) and Punta del Este (the most prestigious resort). To be honest, I have not met a single traveler in Uruguay who would choose to travel by air instead of land transport. The country is so compact, beautiful, with modern and good roads that it’s simply a pity to waste time going through security at the airport.

Automobile. Renting a car is very popular among travelers. The roads are wonderful, the drivers are polite, towns and villages are located close to each other. In a few days you can travel around the entire coast. Typically, rental points are located at the airport, train stations and large hotels. You can travel throughout the country, but traveling to neighboring states is prohibited. You can leave your car in any city where your rental company has an office.

You can rent a car after reaching 23 years of age if you have an international driving license. The driver must have at least two years of experience. Price per day from $50. Insurance and child seat included. Often rental companies ask you to leave a deposit of $1000 in cash or by blocking your card. The Travelask section will help you understand the prices for different rental car models.

Connection

There are three main cellular providers in Uruguay:

• Movitel.
• Claro.
• Ancel/Antel.

The latter is considered the market leader. A SIM card can be bought at any salon. Some of the money will immediately appear in the account. Subsequently, it can be replenished in the same communication stores. That is, the system is the same as in Russia. If desired, you can connect 3G.

To buy a SIM card you need a passport and money. Typically, travelers choose the simplest option for $8 (240 pesos). At the same time, the SIM card itself costs $2 and $6 will be in your account.

There are many pay phones in cities and on highways. Calls from them are often cheaper than international roaming. A card or token costing less than 10 cents is required to speak. 1 minute of telephone conversation with Moscow costs on average $1.

You can call home from post offices. Communication will be much better, but also more expensive. Free Wi-Fi signal is available in many cafes, restaurants, shopping centers capitals and major cities, but it is not always possible to find it on the coast.

Language and communication

In Uruguay they speak what is called “Uruguayan Spanish”. It contains over 9,000 words that people from other Spanish-speaking countries do not understand. And the rest of the words are pronounced specifically. So knowing Spanish is useful here, but it will not provide complete understanding.

• Buenas Dias - Good morning.
• Buenas Tardes - Good evening.
• Buenas noches - Good night.
• Ola - Hello.
• Adyos - Bye, Goodbye.
• Gracias - Thank you.
• Por Favor – Please (used in requests).
• Si - Yes.
• But no.
• Vale - Okay, good.

Features of mentality

Uruguayans are extremely open and friendly people, very welcoming and nice. They lack the Argentine passion and thirst to draw violent emotion from everywhere. They are calmer, more contemplative. Nobody fights on the streets. It seems that the whole country is in some kind of single impulse of idyll and harmony with the world and each other.

In the evenings, everyone walks along the wonderful port promenades, drinks mate, plays the guitar, and reads books. There are very few things in Uruguayan homes, much less than we are used to. They say: we don’t want to sit at home, we love the street, communication, air.

It seems that the whole life of Uruguayans flows in the rhythm of a cheerful, unhurried conversation under a plane tree on a quiet colonial side street or on the shore of the Atlantic.

Food and drink

The national cuisine of Uruguay is an amazing mixture of culinary traditions of Argentina, Brazil, Italy and ancient Indian tribes. First of all, the country is famous for its freshest and perfectly cooked meat. According to statistics, Uruguay is home to 3 million people and 10 million cows. French fries, rice and green salad are most often served as a side dish for meat dishes.

Fish, oddly enough, is cooked much less often, although the country has access to the ocean. There are almost no good fishing spots to be found, but on the coast it is possible. From Spain, for example, came the tradition of preparing paella with seafood, which can be tasted almost everywhere in the resort region of Punta del Este.

Uruguayans love pizza and pasta. They can be found in traditional Italian design on almost any city street. True, the rich creamy sauce for them will be national, with the sonorous name “Caruso”. Uruguayans cook pizza in the oven and always sprinkle it with oregano.

In Uruguay, like in many hot countries, they love and know how to make ice cream. It is most often served with fresh fruits and nuts.

Of the drinks, the most popular, of course, is mate. It tastes similar to herbal tea, but is actually made from dried and crushed Paraguayan oak leaves. Mate replaces both tea and coffee for the country's residents. It tones, cleanses the blood and nourishes the body. Mate is more than a drink, it is a true national passion.

5 dishes worth trying

The main value of Uruguayan cuisine is meat. It is served everywhere: in markets, in cafes, restaurants, at home, on the beach. The main dishes of the national cuisine, except spinach pie, are meat. Most often, meat is baked right outside on a special grill turned at a special angle. In villages, ordinary bed nets are often used instead of bars, which makes tourists very happy.

• Asado a la Parrilla– truly the main culinary delight of local cuisine. This is a well-grilled assortment of meats. For travelers, this is an ideal choice for an evening meal with red wine on the outdoor terrace. For local residents, this is also not just food, it is a holiday of communication with relatives, neighbors, and relatives in the process of cooking and sharing a street feast that goes back far into history.

• Pascualina– a delicious layer cake filled with spinach, whole boiled egg, cheese and garlic. Perhaps the easiest version of a very hearty local cuisine. You can always buy it to go and have a picnic.

• Chivito- This is a delicious and very, very filling sandwich, which contains a pork or veal chop, tomato slices, mozzarella cheese and lettuce. The sizes are always gigantic, one serving is enough for two people.

• Puchero is a national incredibly rich and thick soup, which is prepared mainly in winter. It includes pork, beef and all kinds of vegetables. South Americans, unlike us, do not like to cut anything and put whole or large pieces of potatoes, carrots and corn in soups.

• Milanesas- chops coated in breadcrumbs and egg and deep fried. They are served both in restaurants and fast food cafes.

5 desserts worth trying

Uruguayans have an incredible sweet tooth. Confectionery shops in large cities are literally on every corner. In resort villages, housewives bake cakes at home and take them out to the beach to sell before sunset. Everything I've tried is fantastically delicious. By the way, in many ways, Uruguayan cakes are similar to Russian ones, but they are much softer and lighter in texture.

• Postre chaja(“Screamer”) is a unique airy Uruguayan dessert that bears the name of a tiny bird that lives on the cleanest lakes of the country. These are amazingly tender pastries (or cake), which contain: sponge cake, sour cream, boiled condensed milk, canned peaches.

• Dulce de leche(“Milk candy”) is a sweet, sticky paste that is obtained by slowly heating milk with sugar. In fact, this is an analogue of our boiled condensed milk, which Uruguayans add to all baked goods.

• Milhojas- a variant of the Uruguayan "Napoleon". Delicious layer cake with chocolate and cream filling. Sold in pastry shops both in individual pieces and as a whole cake.

• Alfajores- biscuit two-layer cookies filled with condensed milk, sprinkled with coconut flakes and sometimes drizzled with chocolate. Similar in size to French macarons. Very light, crumbly, tender. You can eat them for an afternoon snack, washing down with mate.

• Ensimadas- Catalan sweet buns that came with the Spanish colonialists, which are firmly entrenched in the main positions of all Uruguayan coffee shops.

5 drinks worth trying

The most famous soft drink in Uruguay and neighboring Argentina is mate. Like residents of any hot country, Uruguayans love beer very much, although they do not have a special beer culture. But they can boast of their original wine. The local vine is in good standing with sommeliers around the world. When it comes to summer cocktails, Uruguayans love a mixture of white wine and champagne (Medio y medio) and local sangria (Clerico). In winter they warm up with honey vodka (Grappamiel).

• Mate- a tonic herbal drink made from Paraguayan oak shoots, which Uruguayans carry with them everywhere, regardless of the weather and time of day.

• Clerico(Clerico) – a cocktail made of white wine, juice, chopped fruit and ice. This is what the Spanish call sangria. Served in a large carafe with ice.

• Medio y media(“Fifty-fifty”) is a cocktail consisting of 50% white wine and 50% champagne. Can be ordered at any bar. Also sold ready-made in bottles.

• Cerveza(beer). The most popular varieties are Pilsen and Patricia. In South America it is difficult to find beer in small bottles. Too much good climate and funny people. Therefore, you can buy from 1 liter or more.

• Grappamiel(honey grappa) - vodka made with honey with a strength of 25-27 degrees has become the main strong drink of the country. It is not always found in cities, but in rural areas it is literally on every table.

Shopping

Best cities for shopping

My simple advice is not to buy souvenirs in resort port towns. Most often, prices are greatly inflated, and products are made hastily. But the markets are amazing and one of the best places on the continent to buy unique, distinctive, weird, antique, fun and a wide variety of goods. Prices in Uruguay are not very high, and you are sure to find something to your liking.

Flea market Tristan Narvaja. Open every Sunday on the street of the same name. Believe me, even if you don’t need anything at all, this market is definitely worth a visit. In fact, the entire central part of the city turns into this amazing market-theater on Sundays.

You will meet musketeers, flute players, sellers of birds, books, flowers, skulls, homemade angels, and dolls. Around the market, in former brothels, there are junk shops, artists' workshops, city museums, artisans' rooms, and antique shops.

Port market(Mercado del Puerto). Located in the building of the former railway station. Outwardly, it is unremarkable, but inside there are real mysteries going on: meat is sold, fried and eaten everywhere. With liveliness, energy, pleasure and some kind of frantic hedonism.

The market is not limited to meat alone. Here you can buy everything: vegetables, fruits, spices, fish, seafood. Local residents say that if they don’t go to the market to shop and eat at least a couple of times a week, they are wasting their time.

Sunday market in Rodo Park. This is a way to buy souvenirs, relax in nature and visit the south of the Uruguayan capital. The park has a pond, palm trees, and lush manicured lawns. On Sundays they sell everything they need: clothes, potted flowers, musical instruments.

What to bring from this country

• “Pumpkin” for brewing mate. Uruguayans love mate, drinking it day and night, on weekdays and weekends. Mate is essential in Uruguay as a cup of morning coffee is in Europe. You can buy wooden round cups for mate at any price, depending on the design, design and size. Price from $3.

• Retro toy car. The most popular city among tourists, Colonia Del Sacramento is known for its vintage cars, among other historical treasures. Fords and Mercedes from the early twentieth century stand proudly in shady alleys. Collectors from all over the continent come to look at them and buy miniatures. Price from 10$.
Montevideo is a real place for fans of leather products. Prices in Uruguay are much lower than in the rest of the world. You can buy anything: bags, belts, shoes, jackets or simple souvenirs in the form of keychains and bracelets. Price from 1$.

• Wine. The country produces excellent wine. The most famous variety is Tanna, which moved to the southern continent from the French region of Madiran. This is a red wine with a very unusual aroma of cherries, mulberries, violets and hints of raspberries. Price from $4.

• T-shirt. Most often, tourists bring T-shirts with the flag of Uruguay or the name of a famous football player. This is a great gift for men, who often have the hardest time choosing souvenirs. Price from $5.

Prohibited for export from the country

• plants, their parts and products of plant origin;
• fresh fruits and vegetables;
• seeds;
• crafts with seeds and plant products;
• flowers, ornamental plants;
• soils, as well as various planting materials;
• animals and products of animal origin;
• skins and stuffed animals and birds;
• liquid milk, butter, eggs, cream and cheese;
• poultry, including exotic breeds, bees, etc.;
• meat and sausage products of all types;
• animal feed and veterinary products;
• flammable substances and radioactive materials;
• drugs;
• materials containing propaganda of obscenity, pornography and undermining the foundations of the state.

Uruguay is on the list of countries where you can apply for Tax free. Look out for the Global Blue Tax Free Shopping logo in store windows. If there is one, feel free to shop. If not, ask sellers about Tax Free opportunities.

After paying for the goods, be sure to ask for a Tax Free Form or Tax Refund Check at the checkout, in which with Latin letters The buyer's first and last name, the country and city of his residence, the date of purchase and the cost of the purchased goods are indicated. The data is extracted from the international passport. So don't forget it (or a copy) when you plan your shopping trip. Most often, sellers completely fill out the form themselves, but sometimes they limit themselves to entering the amount. In this case, you will need to add the necessary facts yourself.

The minimum purchase amount for which you will receive a tax refund in Uruguay is $15 (500 Uruguayan pesos).

Items for which you can receive a refund

• Clothes and shoes.
• Food and drinks.
• Souvenirs.
• Leather, knitted and craft.

Arrive at the airport with plenty of time upon your return. South Americans are very leisurely people, and the procedure can be quite lengthy.

Important: do not put purchases on which you will receive a tax refund in your luggage. You will need to show the product.

Before checking in for your flight, go to the customs counter with your completed Tax Free Form, passport, receipts, credit card and purchases. Uruguayan customs must stamp your Tax Free Form receipt. It is valid for 90 days from the date the form is issued.

There, at Carrasco Airport in, there is a Tax Free Refund point in the international departures area not far from Duty Free. Money (22% of the amount) can be returned immediately. If the line is long and you can't make it, don't worry. You can come to any Russian Tax free shopping partner bank and make a refund within three months after making the purchase.

Safety

Uruguay is a calm, peaceful and very safe country. Believe me, you will not feel so comfortable anywhere in South America. You can safely come with your whole family, including small children. Crime here is practically zero, even in the capital and large cities. To calm your soul, you need to follow the most basic safety rules that are relevant anywhere in the world.

5 things you definitely shouldn't do

• carry large amounts of cash with you,
• walking alone along deserted streets at night,
• display expensive watches and jewelry in public places,
• leaving your bag unattended during city holidays,
• carry valuables in the outer pockets of the backpack.

5 things you must do in this country

1. Rent a bike and ride the entire long embankment of the ancient medieval city of Colonia del Sacramento.
2. Send a symbolic boat along the river with gifts to the goddess of the sea and fertility, Yemanja, during the February festival.
3. Chat with hippies. Nowhere in South America are there so many hippie settlements as in Uruguay. Moreover, every elderly, good-natured old man in colorful clothes proudly calls himself “The First Hippie of the Country.”
4. Take a walk from one port village to another along the shores of the Atlantic Ocean.
5. Drink plenty of strong herbal tea, which you will see in the hands of every bus driver and passerby. As it turns out, Uruguay (and not the birthplace of the drink) is the largest consumer of mate in the world.

Nearby countries

Getting from Russia to South America is not easy or budget-friendly, so travelers are used to preparing for such a trip for a long time and then combining 2-3 countries. Uruguay is a real find in this regard. It borders immediately on two of our favorite countries from books and TV series: Brazil and Argentina.

The easiest way to get to the capital of Argentina is by ferry from the town of Colonia Del Sacramento. A one-way ticket costs from $20. Travel time 1 hour. Carriers: Buquebus, Colonia express.

The easiest way to get to Brazil is through a town with the funny name Chuy. One half of it belongs to Brazil, the other to Uruguay. Brazilians and Uruguayans pass through each other without any stamps in their passports. Foreigners must get stamps at a special border booth.

Money

The official currency of the country is the Uruguayan peso (UYU). Today, one peso is equal to two rubles. That is, the easiest way for us is to multiply all prices by two. Please do not confuse the Uruguayan peso with the US dollar, as the currencies are designated the same by $.

There are a lot of ATMs in the country. Mainly Redbanc, Cirrus, Link and RedBrou companies. Credit and debit cards are in use. The most popular: American Express, MasterCard and VISA. I recommend changing currency at official exchange offices and banks. You only need to have your passport with you.

Important point! South Americans do not like to work hard; on weekends all banks and exchange offices are closed; on weekdays they are open only during the day (from 13.00 to 17.00). 24-hour service is available at the airport and on the central metropolitan street Avenida 18 de Julio.

1) Eastern Republic of Uruguay, state in South. America. During colonial times, the territory of modern. State Va was part of the Spanish General of the Governorate of La Plata as Prov. Eastern Shore (since 1815 Eastern Province); name by location on... ... Geographical encyclopedia

Uruguay- Uruguay. Cattle grazing in a subtropical savanna. URUGUAY (Oriental Republic of Uruguay), a state in the southeast of South America, is washed in the south by the Atlantic Ocean. Area 178 thousand km2. Population 3.15 million people, mainly... ... Illustrated Encyclopedic Dictionary

I (Uruguay), river in South America. 2200 km, basin area 307 thousand km2. It flows into La Plata Bay. Average water flow 5500 m3/s. Navigable for sea vessels from the city of Paysandu. II Eastern Republic of Uruguay (Republica Oriental del Uruguay),… … encyclopedic Dictionary

Eastern Republic of Uruguay, a state in the South. America. Washed by the waters of the Atlantic approx. 178 thousand km². population 3.15 million people (1993), mainly Uruguayans. Urban population 85.5% (1990). Official language Spanish. Believers in... Big Encyclopedic Dictionary

URUGUAY- (Uruguay), Eastern Republic of Uruguay (Republica Oriental del Uruguay), a state in the southeast. America. Pl. 176 t. km2. Population 2970 people (1983). Capital Montevideo (1.3 million, 1980) U. industrial. agri country with developed livestock farming Before... ... Demographic Encyclopedic Dictionary

- (Uruguay), Eastern Republic of Uruguay, a state in the southeast of South America. The art of Uruguay almost entirely emerged in modern times. Anthropomorphic and zoomorphic stones, bell-shaped... ... have been preserved from the culture of the Charrua Indians. Art encyclopedia

American Switzerland Dictionary of Russian synonyms. Uruguay noun, number of synonyms: 3 American Switzerland (1) ... Synonym dictionary

URUGUAY- Territory 186.9 thousand sq. km, population 3 million people (1987). Uruguay is an agro-industrial country. The basis of the economy is the production of livestock products. Meat and wool sheep breeding is developed. In 1990, there were 16 million sheep, 98 thousand were produced... World sheep farming

Uruguay- (Uruguay), state in South. America. In Colon, the period was called Prov. The Eastern Bank was part of Spain. Vice of the Kingdom of Rio de la Plata. In 1814 East Bank leaders, particularly Artigas, broke with the military. junta in Argentina and headed... ... The World History

I Uruguay (Uruguay) river in South America; the upper reaches in Brazil, the rest serves as the border between Argentina in the west, Brazil and Uruguay in the east. It is formed by the confluence of the river. Pelotas and Canoas, originating in the west. slopes of the ridge Serra do... Great Soviet Encyclopedia

Books

• , . The Summit series is a special genre. Its task is to briefly characterize the modern appearance of the country in question, to show its significance in the context of international relations of the Russian Federation, to outline...
• Uruguay in the context of leftist drift. Continuity and change. The Summit series is a special genre. Its task is to briefly characterize the modern appearance of the country in question, to show its significance in the context of international relations of the Russian Federation, to outline...

The official name is the Eastern Republic of Uruguay (Republica Oriental dee Uruguay).

Uruguay is the smallest country in South America, located in its southeastern part. It is 4 times larger than Switzerland and almost 2 times larger than Portugal. Area 176.215 thousand km2. Population 3.39 million people. (2002). The official language is Spanish. The capital is Montevideo (1.4 million people, 2002). Public holiday - Independence Day (from Brazil) on August 25 (since 1825). The currency is the peso.

Member of the UN, OAS, LNPP, LAAI, MERCOSUR.

Sights of Uruguay

Geography of Uruguay

Located between 56° west longitude and 33° south latitude. In the south and southeast it is washed by the Atlantic Ocean. The coastline is slightly indented, there are small open bays; the best natural harbor is Montevideo. It borders on Argentina in the west, and Brazil in the north and northeast.

Occupies the southeastern part of the Brazilian Plateau. The relief is flat-ridge. Ridges - Kuchily. The highest ridge is Cuchilla de Aedo (height up to 473 m). In the extreme east of the country there is a coastal lowland of the Atlantic Ocean with lagoon lakes, incl. the largest is Lagoa Mirin. The highest point in the country is Pan de Azucar (height 501 m). The river network is quite dense. The deepest rivers are the Uruguay and Rio Negro. The soil cover is dominated by reddish-black soils of savannas and pampas, in the southwest - chernozem-like reddish soils. The vegetation is dominated by a grassy savannah with grassy forbs (grasses, aristids, bluegrass, feather grass, shrubs: acacia, chinus, doctonea), which are green all year round. The heights of Cuchilla Grande and Cuchilla de Aedo are covered with moderately humid forests (mainly Araucariaceae), and the lower reaches of the Rio Negro are covered with subtropical forests (from the Myrtaceae, Mimosa, and Laurel families). Forests occupy no more than 5% of the country's territory. The fauna has been greatly exterminated. There are armadillos, gray opossum, small deer, skunk, rhea, or American ostrich. There are a lot of waterfowl, and in coastal waters - fish (anchovy, mackerel, dorado, etc.). There are no significant mineral deposits. There are known gold deposits (La Floresta, Solis, Bella Vista), placer deposits of titanium, zircon, and monocyte on the eastern coast of the Atlantic Ocean; deposits of iron and manganese ores in the northeast (Cerro Mulero); There are brown coal deposits. The climate is subtropical with uniform precipitation throughout the year. Winter is mild. Average temperatures in July are + 10-12°C, in January +22-24°C. Annual precipitation ranges from 1000 mm in the south and inland to 1200 mm in the north and at higher elevations.

Population of Uruguay

Population density 19 people. per 1 km2. Annual population growth is 0.7%, birth rate is 17.28%, mortality is 9%, infant mortality is 14.25 people. per 1000 newborns (2002). Average life expectancy is 75.66 years. Age structure: 0-14 years - 24.4%, 15-64 years - 62.6%, 65 years and older - 13% (2002). The most unfavorable age structure of the population in the region has developed - for every 2 workers there is 1 pensioner. Since 1996, the retirement age has been raised: for women to 57 years, for men to 65 years. The educational level of the population is high. 97% of the adult population is literate. OK. 40% of the economically active population have secondary education, 14% have special education, 13% have higher education. A high educational level allows you to study and apply new technologies in various industries. The predominant part are Uruguayans, descendants of Spanish colonists of the 16th-18th centuries. and later settlers from Western Europe (Spaniards, Italians, French). The indigenous population of Uruguay as a result of the anti-Indian wars of the 19th century. was completely exterminated, one of the “whitest” countries in Latin America. 88% of the population is white, 8% is mestizos and 4% is black. Language - Spanish. Religion: 66% of the population are Catholics, 2% are Protestants, 1% of the population are Jews, etc.

History of Uruguay

The colonial period began in Uruguay in the 16th century. after the penetration of the Spaniards (first in 1515). The War of Independence against the colonial rule of the Spaniards was led by H.H. Artigas (victory in 1811 over Spanish troops at Las Piedras). After liberation from the Spanish, and in 1815 from the Argentine troops, Uruguay (the country received this name in 1815, before that - the East Coast) was occupied by Portugal (1817). In 1821 it was annexed to Brazil under the name Sisplatin Province. In 1825, Uruguayan patriots declared independence from Brazil, but only in 1828 did Argentina and Brazil recognize their independence. On July 18, 1830, the 1st Constitution of the independent Eastern Republic was adopted.

In the 2nd half. 19th century The penetration of British capital into Uruguay increased, which contributed to the development of capitalist relations. Immigrants poured into the country, mainly from Italy and Spain, who began to fill the middle class of artisans and merchants. In 1926, Uruguay was the first in South America to establish diplomatic relations with the USSR, which were severed in 1935 during the dictatorship of G. Terra (1933-38). During World War II, the Uruguayan government broke off diplomatic relations with the Axis powers (1942), and in February 1945 declared war on Nazi Germany and Japan. In 1943, diplomatic relations with the USSR were restored.

In the new post-war world, British imperialism is losing its position in Uruguay, and American capital is filling this vacuum. The country is experiencing a noticeable development of industry and strengthening of the public sector. Unable to cope with economic difficulties, the ruling bourgeois parties that succeeded each other in power increasingly resorted to repression against democratic forces. Largely under the influence of the international situation against the backdrop of the Cold War, the activities of the terrorist left-wing extremist organization Tupamaros (founded in the mid-1960s by student Raul Sendik) developed. This organization had nothing in common with the communists and was based on representatives of the middle class. President Bordaberry, who took office in 1972, declared a state of emergency in the country under the pretext of combating terrorist attacks by the Tupamaros. In 1973, the influence of the armed forces in political life increased significantly. In June 1973, President Bordaberry carried out a coup d'etat, parliament was dissolved, political activity was banned, and the Constitution was abolished.

The period from June 27, 1973 to March 1, 1985 is known as the period of dictatorship, or civil-military regime. The inability of the military to overcome difficult economic problems and general dissatisfaction with the regime forced general elections to be held in 1984. The decrees of the military regime restricting the freedom of the press and the activities of political parties were canceled.

In the general elections in November 1989, the candidate of the Blanco party, L.A., was elected president. Lacalle. The share of traditional parties is decreasing due to the growth of left-wing parties, whose share in the elections amounted to 30.2% of the votes. The 1994 elections showed that the country's political system began to be clearly divided into three parts. The Colorado Party received 32.3% of the vote, the National Party 31.2% and the Broad Front 30.6%.

An important result of the work of the coalition of the “Colorado” and “Blanco” parties was the election in 1999 to the post of president of the country from the “Colorado” party of J. Batlle (52.5%), who, with the support of the “Blanco” electorate, defeated the representative of the PVSF (Progressive Choice - Broad front) T. Vazquez (44.5%).

Government and political system of Uruguay

Uruguay is a constitutional republic. On November 27, 1966, a Constitution was adopted, which came into force in February 1967, repealed on June 27, 1973. The new Constitution was not passed by referendum on November 30, 1980, two constitutional reforms were adopted by plebiscite on November 26, 1989 and January 7, 1997. Administratively, it is divided into 19 departments: Artigas, Duracio, Canelones, Colonia, Lavalleja, Maldonado, Montevideo, Paysando, Rivera, Rio Negro, Rocha, Salto, San Jose, Cero Largo, Soriano, Tacuarembo, Treinta y Tres, Flores, Florida. The largest cities: Montevideo, Canelones, Colonia del Sacramento, Salto.

The highest legislative body is the General Assembly, consisting of two chambers: the Senate (30 senators) and the House of Representatives (99 deputies), elected by the population for 5 years. Suffrage is universal and compulsory, granted to all citizens over 18 years of age. The highest body of executive power is the Council of Ministers, appointed by the president and approved by parliament. The head of state is the president, elected by the population through direct universal suffrage. The president is also the head of government. The head of government is also the vice president. The electoral system is based on the Spanish civil legislative system. Since March 2000, the president is Jorge Batlle Ibáñez, the vice-president is Luis Hierro.

One of the outstanding presidents of Uruguay was Jorge Batlle, who was elected to this post twice (1903-07, 1911-15), a representative of the Colorado Party, and carried out socio-economic and political reforms that changed the country. His name is associated with the battleism movement, which recognizes the leading role of the state and the public sector in the economic life of the country and the primary development of industry. Batlism became the way of existence and life of the Uruguayans, and it is associated with modern Uruguay. Louis Batlle - president (1947-51), Colorado Party, nephew of H. Batlle, supporter of battleism, advocated the development of industry focused on import substitution. HM. Sanguinetti, Colorado Party, twice elected president (1985-89, 1995-99), battlelist. During his first term, he considered the main task of his reign to be the restoration of peace in Uruguayan society after 12 years of military rule. In the 2nd period he revived the policy of battleism. At the same time, it reduced the regulatory role of the state. Jorge Batlle Ibáñez - President (2000-04), Colorado Party, son and great-nephew of the presidents of Uruguay, continues the line for the development of battleism.

Leading political parties. The Colorado Party, or Batlista (after the name of the founder of the most important faction - H. Batlle), was founded in 1836. It relies on the bourgeois strata, civil servants, and the military. The National Party, or Blanco, was founded in the 1830s. Unites large landowners, trade, financial and industrial bourgeoisie associated with foreign capital. The Christian Democratic Party (CDP) was created in the beginning. 20th century under the name "Civil Union", since 1962 - Christian Democratic Party. Expresses the interests of the national petty bourgeoisie. The Socialist Party of Uruguay (SPU) took shape organizationally in 1911. In the 1960s. In the politics of the SPU there was a shift to the left, the party left the Socialist International. The Communist Party (CPU) was founded in 1920 on the basis of the left majority of the SPU. In 1973-84 it operated underground, legalized in 1985. A broad front took shape organizationally in February 1971. In addition to the Communist Party, it included FIDEL, the Christian Democratic Party, the SPU and other parties and organizations.

The largest trade union association, the Inter-Trade Union Plenum of Workers - National Convention of Workers (MPT - CNT), officially took shape in 1966. In 1973-84, the MPT - CNT was banned and operated underground. Unites 200 trade unions, 40 workers' federations - 230 thousand members (90% of organized workers).

The highest court is the Supreme Court (judges are nominated by the president and elected for 10 years by the General Assembly).

Leading business organization - Export and Investment Promotion Organization.

In domestic politics, the strategic task is the idea of ​​national reconciliation put forward by H. Batlle, the final settlement of the problems of the victims of the period of military dictatorship (1973-85). The movement, formed by family members of victims of the dictatorship, demands an official investigation into every case of disappearance and death and the punishment of those responsible. The issue of victims of the military dictatorship for a long time continued to be a subject of polarization in Uruguayan society, acquired a national character and began to be used by the left as a lever of pressure on the authorities. Taking into account this circumstance, as well as taking into account the successes of the left opposition in the last national elections, H. Batlle, having come to power, set as a priority of presidential policy the strategic task of finally “closing” this issue.

Foreign policy is based on the doctrine of “concentrating circles”. Uruguayan diplomacy efforts focus on the MERCOSUR near abroad zone, followed in order of importance by other Latin American countries, the United States, Western Europe and the rest of the world. Uruguay is a member of the most important continental and regional organizations, a participant in major multilateral agreements, incl. The Treaty of Tlatelolco, which created a nuclear-free zone more than 30 years ago. The main objects of Uruguay's activity are issues of strengthening democratic traditions on the Latin American continent, issues of economic integration and globalization, and combating drug trafficking and organized crime. In relation to the United States, Uruguay has a traditionally independent position. President H. Batlle’s strategic focus on diversifying political and economic ties in the world is being practically translated into the search for ways of rapprochement with the United States, mainly in the direction of “ high technology"(informatics, computer production).

The armed forces consist of the Ground Forces, Navy (including sea-based aviation, coast guard, marine corps), Air Force, and police. The total number of armed forces, including civilian personnel, is 58 thousand people, incl. in the Ground Forces - 17 thousand people, the Air Force - 3 thousand and the Navy - 4.5 thousand people. (2002). The Armed Forces are recruited for hire. Traditional suppliers of military equipment in Uruguay are Western European countries (Great Britain, Spain, Italy, the Czech Republic and Poland).

Uruguay has diplomatic relations with the Russian Federation (established with the USSR in 1926).

Economy of Uruguay

Uruguay has an export-oriented agricultural sector and a highly skilled workforce. Located between the “big neighbors” - Brazil and Argentina - Uruguay depends on their economic conditions, since 45% of Uruguayan exports are sold in the markets of these countries. Since the devaluation of the Brazilian real in 1999, Uruguay has been in recession. Outbreaks of the foot-and-mouth disease epidemic in 2001 and the crisis in Argentina in 2002 cause a crisis in Uruguay.

The decline in GDP compared to the previous year was: in 1999 - 3.4%, in 2000 - 1.9%, in 2001 - 3.4%, in 2002 - 10.5%. As a result, GDP per capita decreased from $6,016 in 1999 to $5,657 in 2001 (in 1995 uniform prices), although it remains one of the highest in Latin America. The labor force is 1.235 million people. (2000). Unemployment in the country, where previously it consistently did not exceed 10% of the economically active population, reached due to the decline in production by the end. 2002 18%.

Decrease in inflation rate, which began in the 1st half. 1990s, was violated in 2002 (1990 - 129.0%, 1995 - 24.3%, 2000 - 5.1%, 2001 - 3.6%, 2002 - 25%). The financial stabilization program carried out since 1991 was based on controlling inflation by establishing a framework for the devaluation of the Uruguayan peso. In the context of the financial and economic crisis, Uruguay, from July 20, 2002, switched to a free market quotation of its national currency. If in December 2001 1 dollar corresponded to 14,768 pesos, then in December 2002 - 27,200 pesos. As a result, Uruguayan goods have become much more expensive than Argentine or Brazilian ones and cannot compete with them. The devaluation of the Uruguayan peso against the dollar led to an increase in consumer prices (an increase in 2002 compared to 2001 - 24.7%).

In 2001, the share of agriculture was 6% of GDP, industry - 29%, services and trade - 65%, and in employment - 14, 16 and 70%, respectively. Industry is represented mainly by the light and food industries for processing agricultural raw materials, as well as mechanical engineering, oil refining, and the chemical industry. Agro-industrial complex products bring the country 65% ​​of foreign exchange earnings. The main role belongs to the food industry, which accounts for 43% of industrial production (2000), followed by leather and clothing (9%), chemical industry (8%), mechanical engineering (8%), oil refining (2%). The main branch in the food industry is meat-packing. The textile industry focuses on the processing of wool for export and the production of synthetic fabrics and threads. In 2001, industrial production decreased by 2.4% compared to 2000, and in 2002 a number of industries, such as manufacturing, decreased production by 10%. Electricity production 7.527 billion kWh (2000). 93% of electricity is generated by hydroelectric power plants, 7% by thermal power plants. Electricity consumption is 7.35 billion kWh (2000), with 950 million kWh exported and 1.3 billion kWh imported.

Agriculture provides the country with basic food products and is the main source of exports. Each resident has 5 hectares of fertile land, which is 6 times higher than even the world level. 85% of the land is used for pasture. Ideal climatic conditions make it possible to obtain rich harvests in agriculture and develop livestock farming. In 1999-2001, production in the industry decreased (by 7.5% in 1999, by 3.5% in 2000, by 5.1% in 2001 compared to the previous year). Reasons: decreased competitiveness of Uruguayan agricultural products, lower world prices for agricultural products, the crisis in Brazil and Argentina, foot-and-mouth disease in cattle, they led to a deep decline in the industry. In 2002, unlike other sectors of the economy, production in the industry managed to increase by 7%, mainly due to an increase in meat (beef) production. Livestock farming is the main branch of agriculture. The cattle herd is estimated at 10.6 million head (2001). In connection with the crisis state of the global wool market, the increasing demand for milk and dairy products from the MERCOSUR member countries in recent years, the tendency to strengthen the meat and dairy sector has become more and more clearly evident in Uruguay. The sheep population in 2000 was 16.5 million heads. Here, following a decline in world prices for wool, the industry is being reoriented from wool to meat. Arable land in crop production accounts for 7.4% of agricultural land (2000). Main grains (thousand tons, 2000): rice (1300), wheat (559.2) and barley (196).

Situated between two Latin American giants, Uruguay is the geographical center of the most densely populated Mercosur zone, connecting the Pacific and Atlantic oceans. The network of roads and expressways is the densest in Latin America. The length of roads is 8983 km, incl. 90% with hard surface (2000). 3/4 of cargo transportation is carried out by road. The length of the railways is 3003 km, leading from the interior to the ports, mainly to Montevideo. Uruguay is the natural gateway to the Parana-Paraguay water system, serving 40 million people. and leading to Paraguay, Bolivia, connecting Argentina and Brazil. The total length of navigable rivers is 1600 km. The largest foreign trade port is Montevideo. Communication with other countries of the world is carried out through international Airport in Montevideo, where they operate approx. 10 international lines and one domestic. 559 thousand passengers are transported per year (2001).

Uruguay is one of the few countries in the world with 100% coverage of the territory by a digital communications network, has the highest density of landline telephone lines in Latin America (28 telephones per 100 inhabitants), 921 thousand telephone subscribers, 350 thousand mobile users (2001). Among Latin American countries, it occupies a leading position in the number of Internet users (400 thousand people in 2002) and personal computers. Radio is used by 1.97 million people.

Almost 2 million foreigners visit Uruguay every year, not only for business purposes, but also for leisure. The country has become an international tourist center due to its natural conditions and high level of service. In terms of the ratio of the number of tourists to the population, Uruguay (0.69) is 6 times larger than Mexico (0.11).

During the years of the reign of President J. Batlle (since 2000), the promised structural reforms were not carried out. The President pays special attention to saving the financial system, undermined by the crises in Brazil and Argentina, and reduces government spending. Due to fear of an intensifying social crisis, privatization of the telephone communications sector and demonopolization of the oil refining sector, which is in the hands of the state, are not being carried out. Budgetary difficulties influence the reduction of social spending.

In 2002, the basis of the credit system was three state banks (the central bank, the Bank of the Eastern Republic of Uruguay - BROU, the Mortgage Bank - IB), 21 commercial banks, 8 financial institutions, 12 offshore banks. The main state institution that determines the norms and principles of operation of the entire banking system of the country is the central bank. All banks are required to keep a security deposit in it. It is characterized by a high degree of dollarization (88% of all bank deposits were denominated in dollars). Until 2002, the credit system was highly stable and the country was called the “Switzerland of Latin America.” The crisis in Argentina led to capital flight and a reduction in bank reserves from $3 billion (end 2001) to $769 million (end 2002), and deposits by 50% (for 2002 alone). Timely loans from the IMF ($769 million and $1.5 billion) and the US Treasury ($4 billion) in 2002 helped Uruguay survive financial difficulties.

In 1999, amid declining business activity and rising government spending, the public finance deficit exceeded 4% of GDP. In 2002, loans from the IMF and the US Treasury, as well as cuts in wages and pensions, allowed the budget deficit to be reduced to 3.4% of GDP. The crisis was reflected in the growth of external debt. If in 1990 it was $4,415 million, then in 2001 it was $9,706 million (long-term debt—3,114 million and 6,634 million, respectively). As of 2003, the external debt of the public sector amounted to $11,426 million, which will require, according to official data, principal and interest payments of $1,884 million.

In 2002, a wage freeze and rising inflation led to the fact that real wages decreased by 18% compared to 2001, and incomes by 23% and amounted to $4,236 per person, i.e. fell below the 1990 level. Until the crisis period, Uruguay, unlike other Latin American countries, experienced a decline in poverty levels. Proportion of families living below the poverty line, estimated at $120 per month, for the 1990s. decreased from 11.8 to 5.6%, and those living in poverty - from 2 to 0.9%. Income is distributed more evenly than in any other Latin American country.

Trade policy since the 1990s. concentrates on MERCOSUR member countries. With a general upward trend in foreign trade turnover in 1991-2000, the share of MERCOSUR countries in the volume of Uruguayan exports increased from 36 to 46%, and imports, respectively, from 41 to 44%. Uruguay's trade volume with Mercosur members doubled during the period under review. Since 2000, there has been a downward trend in the volume of exports and imports of goods and services of Uruguay (in 2000, exports of goods and services - 3659 million US dollars, in 2002 - 2859 million, and imports - 4193 million, 2672 million, respectively). Main trading partners: Brazil, Argentina, EU, USA. Export structure (2000,%): livestock products 30.5, crop products 11.2, textiles 11.7, leather products (excluding shoes) 11.5. The main import items are mechanical engineering and equipment, oil and oil products, food.

Science and culture of Uruguay

Uruguay has the highest educational level and the largest relative number of students compared to all other Latin American countries. In 2001, there were 345.6 thousand students in primary schools, 188.055 thousand in secondary schools, 59.964 thousand in technical schools, and 60.926 thousand students in universities. Since 1975, compulsory 9-year education has been introduced for children from 6 years of age. There are 14 universities: University of the Republic, Catholic University of Uruguay. Damaso Antonio Larrañaga, University of Montevideo, etc. Published ca. 300 daily newspapers (the largest circulation does not exceed 35 thousand copies).

Science is financed by the state (90%) and foreign foundations. Among the state scientific institutions are the institutes of endocrinology and oncology, the oceanographic service, etc. Scientific work is also carried out at universities. The world's educated public is familiar with the work of famous cultural figures, such as writers Juan Carlos Onetti, Mario Benedetti, Miguel Angel Campodonico, painters Pedro Figari and J. Torres Garcia, sculptors A. Peni, J.L. Zorrilla de San Martino, José Belloni. The peak of the Uruguayans' impact on popular culture in the 20th century. was their participation in the development of the song and dance genre of tango, which originated in Buenos Aires. The author of one of the two most popular melodies of this style in the world, “Cumparsita,” was the Uruguayan Gerardo Matos Rodriguez in 1917.