Gorriti Island facts for kids
Gorriti Island (which is Isla Gorriti in Spanish) is a small island located close to the shores of Punta del Este, Uruguay. It is a popular place for both people and amazing wildlife.
Island History
Gorriti Island was first discovered in 1516 by a Spanish explorer named Juan Díaz de Solís. People started living on the island in the 1700s. At that time, it was very important for military defense, especially because of the Portuguese influence in the area. You can still see old, abandoned cannons on the island from those days.
Today, Gorriti Island is part of the Maldonado Department in Uruguay.
A Special National Heritage Site
Gorriti Island, along with another island called Isla de Lobos, has been declared a National Heritage site. This means it is a very special place that is protected because of its history and nature. Many tourists visit its beautiful beaches every year.
The waters around Gorriti Island are full of amazing wildlife. You can find animals that live there all the time and others that visit during certain seasons. Some of the incredible creatures you might see include large southern right whales and huge southern elephant seals. Sometimes, orcas, also known as killer whales, can be seen chasing tuna fish. Close by, on Isla de Lobos, many South American sea lions and South American fur seals come to have their babies.
See also
In Spanish: Isla Gorriti para niños
