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Dragoon Barracks
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Historical site
The Dragoon Barracks (Cuartel de Dragones) in Maldonado is one of the most significant Spanish colonial military buildings in Uruguay. Its construction began in 1771 under the direction of engineer Bartolomé Howel and was completed in 1797. The building was designed to be the barracks for the Almanza Dragoon Regiment, a cavalry unit responsible for defending the region against Portuguese incursions and controlling the countryside. Maldonado's strategic location made it a key defensive point for the Spanish Crown. The barracks is a large, neoclassical structure with thick stone walls, a central parade ground, and spacious galleries. It had the capacity to house up to 500 soldiers. Throughout its history, the building has served various purposes, including as a prison and later as a school. Notably, José Gervasio Artigas, Uruguay's national hero, served here during his early military career. Today, the carefully restored building houses a didactic museum and cultural spaces, serving as a living monument to the region's military and architectural history.
- Location: Uruguay
- Top sights: Parador 31 - Intendencia Municipal · Paseo La Aguada · Museo de Arte Americano
- Nearby: Pan de Azúcar (31 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Mar, Dec.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 22 | 22 | 21 | 18 | 15 | 12 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 15 | 18 | 20 |
| Rain mm | 97 | 118 | 117 | 110 | 91 | 104 | 96 | 100 | 98 | 103 | 93 | 86 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The Dragoon Barracks is a historic military building in Maldonado that can be freely viewed from the outside. The interior may not be open to the public as part of the building is still in use.
Typical hours
As a historic building, there are no fixed visiting hours; the exterior can be viewed at any time. During special events, access to the grounds may be restricted.
Photography
Photographing the facade from the street is allowed without restrictions. For shots of the inner courtyard or details, seek permission from the local municipal office.
Time needed
A brief stop of about 10 to 15 minutes is enough to walk around the building. If you are interested in historical details, you can plan up to 30 minutes.
Combine with
The barracks are located in the historic center of Maldonado, near the town hall and cathedral. A walk along the Río de la Plata promenade is a good idea.
Getting there
The Dragoon Barracks are located in the city center of Maldonado, easily reachable on foot. Buses from Montevideo run hourly to Maldonado; the trip takes about two hours.
Insider tip
Combine the visit with the nearby port to get a sense of the colonial atmosphere. Ask at the tourist information center about possible guided tours of the building.
Geography
Facts
- Construction started in 1771 and was completed in 1797.
- Designed by Spanish engineer Bartolomé Howel.
- It was the barracks for the Almanza Dragoon Regiment.
- José Artigas served in this barracks between 1797 and 1805.
- It has an area of approximately 6,000 square meters.
- It was declared a National Historic Monument in 1984.
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Notable places around
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Sights in the town Dragoon Barracks (10)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Is there an entrance fee for the Drachenkaserne?
Outdoor areas are often free, while museums usually charge a fee.
Dragoon Barracks: where is it located?
Dragoon Barracks is located in Uruguay.
Dragoon Barracks: what is there to see?
Highlights include Parador 31 - Intendencia Municipal, Paseo La Aguada, Museo de Arte Americano.
Dragoon Barracks: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Mar, Dec.
Dragoon Barracks: why is it worth visiting?
The Dragoon Barracks (Cuartel de Dragones) in Maldonado is one of the most significant Spanish colonial military buildings in Uruguay.
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