Where is Montevideo: geography and curiosities

Montevideo is the capital of Uruguay and the country's most populous city. It is located on the southern coast of South America, overlooking the Rio de la Plata.

Its location makes it one of the most important ports in the region and a starting point for those visiting Uruguay.

Where exactly is it located?

Montevideo lies on the northern bank of the Rio de la Plata estuary , the wide mouth that separates Uruguay from Argentina . On the other bank lies Buenos Aires , a few dozen kilometers away as the crow flies.

The city is the capital of the department of the same name and the country's economic and political center. It is about 200 kilometers from Punta del Este , Uruguay's most famous seaside resort.

Population and territory

Montevideo has approximately 1,3 million inhabitants, rising to nearly 1,9 million in the metropolitan area. It is a relatively flat city, with a long urban coastline.

Its seafront, La Rambla , is among the longest in the world and connects beaches, parks and residential neighborhoods.

History and curiosity

Montevideo was founded by the Spanish in 1726 under the name of San Felipe y Santiago de Montevideo . In 1930, it hosted the first-ever football World Cup.

The Centenario Stadium was built specifically for that event and remains a temple of Uruguayan football to this day. The city is also home to many South American artists and writers.

FAQ

Montevideo is the capital of which country?

Of Uruguay , of which it is also the most populous city.

Which river does it overlook?

On the Rio de la Plata , the estuary between Uruguay and Argentina.

Why is it famous in the world?

For hosting the first World Cup in 1930.