About Montevideo, Uruguay:
Situated on the Rio de la Plata estuary, Montevideo is the capital and largest city of Uruguay (population of roughly 1.77 million, nearly half of Uruguay’s total). It is Uruguay’s economic, administrative, and cultural center, founded by Spanish colonial forces and now a major port city known for its vibrant waterfront, diverse architecture, and cultural landmarks like the Mercado del Puerto and Teatro Solís. Its economy is driven by international trade, with significant agriculture, tourism, and a strong cultural scene.
Some of you have no doubt read of the scuttling of the German battleship Graf Spee in Montevideo harbor on December 17 , 1939. At that time World War II had begun in Europe between Germany and the United Kingdom, but Uruguay was neutral. Not wanting to entangled in the conflict, Uruguay ordered the ship to leave port, although British ships were waiting in the waters outside the port. The captain and 40 other men aboard moved into the outer roadstead and scuttled the ship rather than have it be handed to the British. It was the subject of several films, including “The Battle of the River Plate” (a.k.a. “Pursuit of the Graf Spee” in the United States), a 1956 British film.
Catholic places of interest in Montevideo, Uruguay
Montevideo Metropolitan Cathedral (Catedral metropolitana de Montevideo)
National Shrine of the Sacred Heart of Jesus (Santuario Nacional del Sagrado Corazón de Jesús)
Monumento a Juan Pablo II (Monument to John Paul II): is a significant landmark in the city, commemorating the first visit of Pope John Paul II to the country in 1987. The monument marks the site where the Pope celebrated his first Mass in Uruguay. Pope John Paul II visited Uruguay twice, in 1987 and 1988. His March, 1987 visit was part of a larger trip to Latin America that included Chile and Argentina. His second visit to Uruguay was in May 1988 as part of a larger South American tour. During this trip, he celebrated Mass in several cities, including Melo, Florida, and Salto.
Traveling to Montevideo, Uruguay:
By air: You can get to Montevideo by flying into Carrasco International Airport (code MVD). Montevideo is served by many international airlines. Major U.S. airlines such as American and Delta offer direct flights from certain US cities. Other airlines include Iberia. LATAM, Sky Airline, and other regional carriers provide direct connections from several cities in South America and Spain.
Regarding Uruguay national airliines, two went out of business over the past few years; however, Sociedad Uruguaya de Aviación (SUA) is scheduled to be the new national airline, beginning operations in late 2025.
By sea: Montevideo is a popular cruise port for several cruise lines. Also, there is ferry service from Buenos Aires, Argentina.