Casa de Manuel Ximénez y Gómez🏛 museum
A colonial-style house that once belonged to a wealthy merchant, now showcasing historical exhibits.
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House of Fructuoso Rivera
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Historical site
The House of Fructuoso Rivera, located in Montevideo's Old City, is another crucial historical building tied to the foundation of Uruguay. This colonial house, built in the late 18th century, was the residence of General Fructuoso Rivera, the first president of Uruguay (1830-1834). The building is characterized by its simple yet elegant facade, a central patio, and spacious rooms, typical of the architecture of the period. As the residence of the nation's first president, it was the center of political life during the republic's early years; important governmental decisions were made within its walls. It was declared a National Historical Monument in 1940. Today, the House of Fructuoso Rivera is an integral part of the National Historical Museum, preserving a collection that focuses on the early history of Uruguay. Exhibits include personal items of Rivera, portraits, 19th-century furniture, and documents related to his presidency, offering visitors a window into the nation's post-independence era.
- Location: Uruguay
- Nearby: Las Piedras (12 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
Visiting
The House of Fructuoso Rivera is a museum dedicated to Uruguay's first president. Visitors can view the original preserved rooms and personal belongings. The museum is a branch of the National Historical Museum.
Typical hours
The museum is typically open Tuesday to Sunday from 11:00 to 17:00. It is closed on Mondays. On holidays, the museum may be closed or have reduced hours.
Photography
Photography is allowed in most rooms without flash. In some rooms with sensitive paper documents or textiles, photography may be restricted. Please pay attention to the relevant signs.
Time needed
The museum tour typically lasts 45 minutes to an hour. If you are interested in the details of the furnishings and history, you may stay longer.
Combine with
The museum is located in Montevideo's historic district, near Plaza Matriz and the cathedral. Combine the visit with a walk to the Cabildo or the Solís Theatre.
Getting there
The museum is easily accessible by city bus or on foot from the old town. The nearest bus line stops at Plaza Independencia. Parking in the area is paid and limited.
Insider tip
Ask the museum staff about the history of the house - it once served as a residence for the president's family. Entry is often free or very cheap, but donations are welcome.
Geography
Facts
- Built in the late 18th century
- Residence of Fructuoso Rivera, the first president of Uruguay
- Rivera served as president from 1830 to 1834
- Declared a National Historical Monument in 1940
- Today it is part of the National Historical Museum
- Located in the Old City of Montevideo
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town House of Fructuoso Rivera (1)
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Frequently asked questions
What is housed in this house?
It houses the Historical Museum of Uruguay.
Is admission free?
Yes, access to this national collection is free.
When is it open?
Usually open Tuesday through Sunday during the day.
How long does a visit take?
Plan for about 1 hour to explore the site.
Are there guided tours?
Guided tours are sometimes available upon request.
House of Fructuoso Rivera: where is it located?
House of Fructuoso Rivera is located in Uruguay.
House of Fructuoso Rivera: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Mar, Nov, Dec.
House of Fructuoso Rivera: why is it worth visiting?
The House of Fructuoso Rivera, located in Montevideo's Old City, is another crucial historical building tied to the foundation of Uruguay.
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History & landmarks
Taranco Palace
An elegant French-style palace in the Old City that houses the Museum of Decorative Arts.
Metropolitan Cathedral
The main Catholic church in Montevideo, located on the Plaza de la Constitución.
Port Market
A historic market hall in the Old City of Montevideo, famous for its barbecue restaurants.
Solís Theatre
The oldest theatre in Uruguay, playing an important role in the cultural life of Montevideo.
Mausoleum of José Gervasio Artigas
An impressive mausoleum in Plaza Independencia housing the remains of the national hero.
Palacio Salvo
This iconic building on Plaza Independencia was once the tallest in South America.
Santos Palace
The headquarters of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Uruguay, an impressive historic building in Montevideo.
Telecommunications Tower
A modern skyscraper and the tallest building in Uruguay, used by Antel.
More places
Lavalleja's House
The colonial residence of Juan Antonio Lavalleja, a national hero of Uruguay, which now serves as a museum.
Taranco Palace
A magnificent palace of French architecture in Montevideo, which now houses the Museum of Decorative Arts.
Cabildo of Montevideo
The historic city hall where the first constitution of Uruguay was signed in 1830.
Port of Montevideo
Uruguay's largest seaport, handling the majority of its foreign trade.
Port Market
A historical market hall in Montevideo from 1868 with an impressive iron structure.
Solís Theatre
The oldest and most important theater in Uruguay, opened in 1856 with classical architecture.
Gateway of the Citadel
One of the few remaining parts of the city wall that protected colonial Montevideo.
Montevideo Free Port
A special customs zone within the Port of Montevideo allowing logistics and goods handling without import taxes.