Constitution Square, Montevideo facts for kids
| Spanish: Plaza de la Constitución | |
| Plaza Matriz | |
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| Location | Ciudad Vieja, Montevideo |
|---|---|
| Construction | |
| Inauguration | 1726 |
Plaza de la Constitución (Spanish for 'Constitution Square'), also known as Plaza Matriz, is the oldest city square in Montevideo, Uruguay. It's located in the historic barrio (neighborhood) called Ciudad Vieja. Since 1726, it has been the main public space of the old Fortress City of San Felipe and Santiago of Montevideo. This square is the heart of the city's historic area. Important buildings like the Metropolitan Cathedral and the Cabildo surround it. Because of this, it's a very popular spot for tourists.
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History of Constitution Square
Constitution Square was created in 1726, just two years after Montevideo was founded. For many years, it was a simple, dusty open space. By the late 1700s, buildings started to appear around it. From then on, the square became a place for important events. These included official celebrations and military gatherings. It even hosted bullfights, as there was a bullring located right in the square.
In 1851, the square got a big makeover. It was designed with paths that crossed diagonally. These paths were lined with trees and paved. New benches and lanterns were also added, making it a much nicer place to visit.
The Famous Fountain
A major project began in 1868 to bring fresh water to the city. A special plant and a long pipe (60 km!) were built to pump water from the Santa Lucía River. A beautiful fountain was also built in the square to receive this water. On May 13, 1871, water from the river reached the Plaza Constitución for the first time. The stunning fountain was officially opened on July 18 by President Lorenzo Batlle y Grau.
The fountain was designed by architect Juan Manuel Ferrari. It has a round pool at its base. In the center, there's a fancy column with three dishes that get smaller as they go up. You can also see four mythical creatures called griffins. These are mixed with other symbols, like the National Coat of Arms.
The central fountain was restored in 2011. Today, Constitution Square is a busy tourist and shopping area. It's connected to the Peatonal Sarandí, a popular pedestrian street. Many offices, government buildings, banks, stores, and cultural places are located nearby.
What's Around the Square?
Constitution Square is surrounded by several important buildings. To the west, you'll find the Montevideo Metropolitan Cathedral. This is the main Catholic church in the city. To the east is the Cabildo. This historic building used to be the city's government house. Also on the east side is Casa Vaeza, which is the main office for the National Party.
To the south of the square is the Peatonal Sarandí, a lively pedestrian street. You'll also find Club Uruguay there. On the north side, you can see the headquarters of the Ministry of Transport and Public Works.
Gallery
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Characteristic kiosk of the city
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Square name sign
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Building that housed the Pyramides Hotel
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View of the square from the southwest side
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Flea market in the square
See also
In Spanish: Plaza Matriz para niños
