Nearly half the country's population live in the capital city, which is situated on the east bank of the Río de la Plata, almost directly east of Buenos Aires on the west bank.  The city was founded the city on December 24, 1726 and became the capital of Uruguay in 1828.  

This is many cities rolled into one … international port at the western end and seaside resort with sandy streets and pine forests to the east.  The city's functional centre is Plaza Independencia, with many historic public buildings of the republican era, and a statue of General Artiga, consider the father of Uruguay.  The city's main avenue, 18 de Julio, is one of the finest of South America, and extends from the Plaza Independencia, which is the junction between the Ciudad Vieja (the historical quarter) and the rest of the city, to the neighbourhood of Cordón.  This main thoroughfare is the main commercial and entertainment area.

In the Cuidad Vieja, close to the Plaza Independencia, is the oldest square in Montevideo, Plaza de la Constitución.  The Cathedral is located here, as well as the Cabildo, housing the National History Museum.

Visitors should not miss the old port market, offering freshly cooked parillas and plenty of restaurants, and especially the Saturday market.  This colourful market offers arts and crafts made by the locals, with street musicians adding to the lively atmosphere.

Montevideo hosted all the matches of the 1930 FIFA World Cup and its Estadio Centenario is considered a temple of world football. The city is home to two of the most important South American football clubs: Peñarol and Nacional.