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ANCAP La Teja Refinery
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Industrial site
The La Teja Refinery is Uruguay's only oil refinery, operated by the state-owned oil company ANCAP (Administración Nacional de Combustibles, Alcohol y Portland). Located in the La Teja neighborhood of Montevideo, the facility is vital for supplying the country with a wide range of petroleum products, including gasoline, diesel, kerosene, and fuel oil. Inaugurated in 1937, the refinery has undergone several modernizations over the years to increase production capacity, improve fuel quality, and meet stricter environmental standards. It has a processing capacity of approximately 50,000 barrels of crude oil per day. As Uruguay does not have its own petroleum reserves, the refinery imports crude oil from various countries to meet the national demand. The facility is a key strategic asset for Uruguay's energy security and a significant employer in the capital. It is connected directly to the Port of Montevideo via pipelines to facilitate crude oil importation and product distribution.
- Location: Uruguay
- Top sights: Capilla Nuestra Señora del Rosario (Salesianos – Maturana) · Fotogalería · Armenian Catholic Church
- Nearby: Las Piedras (9 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Mar, Nov, Dec.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 23 | 23 | 21 | 18 | 15 | 12 | 10 | 12 | 13 | 16 | 19 | 21 |
| Rain mm | 102 | 106 | 118 | 114 | 84 | 98 | 92 | 89 | 96 | 103 | 96 | 86 |
📋 Practical info
What is this place?
The ANCAP La Teja refinery in Uruguay is the country's only oil refinery, supplying all of Uruguay's fuel needs. It is a central element of national energy infrastructure and fuel supply.
Visiting
The refinery grounds are a security-sensitive industrial complex, not open to the public. From the adjacent Rambla of Montevideo, however, one can see the chimneys and storage tanks.
Where to view it
The best public view is from the Rambla de Montevideo along the coast, especially near Playa Ramírez. From there one has a wide view of the refinery facilities against the bay backdrop.
Local products
The refinery produces gasoline, diesel, kerosene, LPG and other fuels. These products are sold at gas stations in Montevideo; petrochemical byproducts like lubricating greases are also available commercially.
Active season
The refinery operates around the clock, with regular maintenance windows in spring and autumn. Highest activity occurs during the morning peak hours of fuel dispatch.
Nearby
Combine the visit with Montevideo's old town (Ciudad Vieja), offering the historic center and Mercado del Puerto. A stroll along the Rambla connects industrial views with coastal life.
Geography
Facts
- Inaugurated on December 29, 1937.
- Operated by ANCAP, Uruguay's state-owned oil company.
- Processing capacity of approximately 50,000 barrels per day.
- It is the country's only oil refinery.
- Located in the La Teja neighborhood of Montevideo.
- Uruguay imports 100% of its crude oil requirements.
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Sights in the town ANCAP La Teja Refinery (14)
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Frequently asked questions
What is the ANCAP refinery?
Uruguay's most important oil refinery in Montevideo.
Can one visit the refinery?
No, for safety reasons this is not permitted.
Why is it important?
It is essential for the country's energy supply.
What does it produce?
Various fuels and petroleum products.
Is there noise?
As an industrial facility, there is some noise pollution.
ANCAP La Teja Refinery: where is it located?
ANCAP La Teja Refinery is located in Uruguay.
ANCAP La Teja Refinery: what is there to see?
Highlights include Capilla Nuestra Señora del Rosario (Salesianos, Maturana), Fotogalería, Armenian Catholic Church.
ANCAP La Teja Refinery: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Mar, Nov, Dec.
ANCAP La Teja Refinery: why is it worth visiting?
The La Teja Refinery is Uruguay's only oil refinery, operated by the state-owned oil company ANCAP (Administración Nacional de Combustibles, Alcohol y Portland).
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