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Founded in 1680, Colonia del Sacramento is the oldest town in Uruguay. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is renowned for its historic quarter featuring cobblestone streets and colorful houses reminiscent of old Portuguese colonial towns.

Explore the charming village during this full-day, guided excursion. It all begins at your pier where you will board an air-conditioned transportation for a 2.5-hour scenic drive through the lush countryside.

Step back in time as you step off your transportation in Colonia del Sacramento. The only Portuguese settlement along the Rio de la Plata, it was the focus of a struggle between the Spanish and Portuguese in the late 16th century. Today, its rich, multicultural history is still prevalent and reveals itself as, accompanied by your guide, you set out on your exploration.

The centuries recede as you cross the Portón de Campo - the drawbridge entrance to the old walled part of the city that dates back to 1745. Suddenly you're walking along winding streets lined with vibrantly colored colonial houses.

Stroll through the 17th century cobblestone streets of the Barrio Histórico (Historic Quarter) and enjoy the loveliness of the famous Street of Sighs named for a beauty so profound that it evokes a "sigh" when viewed for the first time. Stand beneath the towering domes of teh Basilica del Santismo Sacramento - the city's main church built by the Portuguese in 1808.

Wander through the largest open area in the old city, the Plaza Mayor (Main Square) site of the original city. Take in the solemnity of the ruins of the San Francisco Convent, built in 1683. Springing from the convent's ruins you'll find El Faro (The Lighthouse) built in 1857. (Admission no included.)

Imagine the flash of a matador's magenta and gold capote (dress cape) and the fury of a charging bull as you stand in La Plaza de Toros (Bullring- outside view only). Moorish in style and built in 1910 to hold 10,000 bullfighting fans. Today, it has become a major tourist highlight of Colonia del Sacramento.

If time permits, for those interested in a more in-depth look at the city's history, the Portuguese Museum exhibits Portuguese furnishings, jewelry and uniforms; the Municipal Museum features artifacts of the city's different periods and cultures; and the Historic Spanish Museum showcases memorabilia from the first Spanish families that arrived after 1777.