Faro El Cerro de Montevideo

The Faro El Cerro de Montevideo, located on the southern coast of Uruguay, has a rich and complex history dating back to 1726.

History

• The lighthouse was reportedly established during this time, although there is no official document confirming its exact foundation date.
• It is believed that Bruno Mauricio de Zabala, a Spanish soldier, played a significant role in the establishment of the city of Montevideo in December 1726.

The city's early history was marked by brief periods of Portuguese and British rule, before it eventually became a Spanish colony.

Architecture

• The Faro El Cerro de Montevideo is a notable example of 19th-century architecture in Uruguay.
• The tower stands at a height of 148 meters and features a distinctive white light that can be seen from a distance of up to 19 kilometers.

The Faro El Cerro de Montevideo was reportedly built using local materials, including limestone and granite.

Light Characteristics

• The Faro El Cerro de Montevideo features a distinctive light pattern, which is reported to be a sequence of four flashes: 0.4+(1.6)+0.4+(1.6)+0.4+(5.6).
• The lighthouse emits a white light that can be seen from a distance of up to 19 kilometers.

Current Status

• The Faro El Cerro de Montevideo is currently an active aid to navigation, although its status as a fully automated lighthouse is not confirmed.
• The lighthouse remains an important part of Montevideo's maritime infrastructure, guiding ships safely into the port.

Location and Accessibility

• The Faro El Cerro de Montevideo is located on Avenida José Batlle y Ordóñez in Montevideo, Uruguay.
• The city is easily accessible by car or public transportation, with several bus routes connecting to the city center.

Heritage Status

The Faro El Cerro de Montevideo has been designated as a protected monument in Uruguay, recognizing its historical and cultural significance.

Notable Historical Events

• The Faro El Cerro de Montevideo played an important role in the history of Montevideo, serving as a guiding light for ships during the city's early years.
• The lighthouse was also reportedly used as a reference point for navigation during the 1930 FIFA World Cup, which was held in Uruguay.

Today, the Faro El Cerro de Montevideo remains an important part of Montevideo's maritime infrastructure and cultural heritage.