- Address: Palacio Heber Jackson, Av. 18 de Julio 998, 11100 Montevideo, Uruguay
- Phone: +598 2900 8764
- E-mail: museodelgaucho@brou.com.uy
- Date of foundation: 1978.
- Opening hours: 10:00 - 16:00, Sat-Sun - closed
The capital of Uruguay , bright and colorful Montevideo , is one of the most visited cities in the country. And this is not surprising, because it is here that the largest number of historical and cultural sights of the state are concentrated. Especially popular among the capital's guests are the numerous museums located literally on every corner. Among the most interesting of them, tourists celebrate the Gaucho Museum. Read more about its features.
Historical facts
The building, which today houses the Gaucho Museum, was built in 1896 by the design of the famous French architect Alfred Massui. The structure is made in an eclectic style, with the predominance of the motives of French neoclassicism. The first owners of the luxurious 3-story mansion were Heber Jackson and his wife Margarita Uriarte.
In 1923 Dr. Alejandro Gallienal proposed the idea of creating a unique museum of money of Ancient Greece and Rome. However, the initiative was not immediately picked up and was able to be realized only 20 years later. The official opening ceremony was held in 1977, and a year later another section on the culture and history of the Uruguayan cowboys Gaucho was added.
What to see?
The facade of the building is made in the classical European style, which distinguishes it from other buildings in the vicinity and attracts the attention of numerous tourists. As for the interior, the main decorations of the former mansion are luxurious paintings on the ceiling, beautiful stucco decorations and various objects and products made of wood.
The Gaucho Museum is on the second floor of the building. It is worth noting that the Gaucho is the local name for the Argentine and Uruguayan cowboys. The appearance of this people first dated XVII century. According to the researchers, these were mostly young mestizos and Creoles, the main activity of which was cattle breeding. The study of the lifestyle of the Gaucho cowboys is of great value, because they played an important role in the development of culture , and especially literature, in the territories of modern Argentina and Uruguay.
The collection of the museum has a huge historical significance and will be of interest to all who love and appreciate art. So, one of the main exhibits are household items (furniture, silverware), various sculptures made in full growth, national costumes, tools and weapons (knives, bows). However, the most popular among visitors are realistic scenes from the life of the Gaucho people, reflecting their usual occupations and main events.
How to get there?
The Gaucho Museum is one of the bright and interesting attractions of Montevideo , located in the heart of the city, near the Plaza Juan Pedro Fabini. You can get there either by yourself, by taxi or rented car, or by using public transport . Leave at the Wilson Ferreira Aldunate stop.