Independence Plaza (Plaza Independencia)

Separating Montevideo’s Old Town and downtown areas, this popular plaza is thought to be the city’s most important one, especially since historic structures such as the Solis Theatre (the country’s oldest theater), Estevez Palace and Executive Tower (the president's workplaces) reside here. One very interesting site to see is the 56-foot statue of Jose Gervasio Artigas, a soldier who fought for equality and democracy and later became Uruguay’s national hero. Underground are Artigas’ remains, which are guarded 24 hours a day.

A trip to Plaza Independencia will allow you to visit Artigas' mausoleum and learn about his life, with interesting facts printed on the surrounding walls. The mausoleum is located in the center of the square, under the monument, and is open Mondays from noon to 6 p.m. and Tuesday to Sunday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.