Río Branco, Uruguay facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Rio Branco
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City
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Baron of Mauá International Bridge over Yaguarón River
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 Río Branco, Uruguay
Location in Uruguay
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| Country |  Uruguay |
| Department |  Cerro Largo |
| Population
(2011 Census)
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| • Total | 14,604 |
| Time zone | UTC -3 |
| Postal code |
37100
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| Dial plan | +598 4675 (+4 digits) |
Río Branco is a city in the northeastern part of Uruguay. It is located in the Cerro Largo department. This city is special because it sits right on the border with Brazil. It is connected to the Brazilian city of Jaguarão by a big bridge. This bridge is called the Baron of Mauá International Bridge.
Contents
What's in a Name?
The name Rio Branco comes from the Portuguese language. It means "white river." However, there isn't a "white river" in the area. The city was named to honor a famous Brazilian diplomat. His name was José Paranhos, Baron of Rio Branco. He helped set the official borders between Brazil and Uruguay. That is why the name is in Portuguese, even though Spanish is spoken in Uruguay.
Where is Río Branco?
Río Branco is located at the eastern end of Route 26. It is about 86 kilometers (53 miles) east-southeast of Melo. Melo is the capital city of the Cerro Largo department.
The Yaguarón River flows along the northern edge of the city. This river forms the natural border with Brazil. Right across the river is the Brazilian town of Jaguarão. The Baron of Mauá International Bridge connects these two cities.
A Look at History
The area was first known as Artigas. On August 31, 1915, a law changed its name to Río Branco. At that time, it was considered a villa, which means a town. Later, on July 1, 1953, its status was raised to a ciudad, meaning it became a city. This change happened by another law.
How Many People Live Here?
In 2011, Río Branco had a population of 14,604 people. The city has grown a lot over the years.
| Year | Population |
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| 1908 | 4,106 |
| 1963 | 4,023 |
| 1975 | 5,685 |
| 1985 | 9,072 |
| 1996 | 12,215 |
| 2004 | 13,456 |
| 2011 | 14,604 |
Source: Instituto Nacional de Estadística de Uruguay (National Institute of Statistics of Uruguay)
International Connections
Brazil has a Vice-consulate in Río Branco. This office helps Brazilian citizens who live in or visit the city. It also helps with official matters between Brazil and Uruguay.
Places to Visit
- St. John the Baptist Parish Church (Roman Catholic)
See also
In Spanish: Río Branco para niños
