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Obelisk to the Constituents
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Landmark
The Obelisk to the Constituents of 1830 is a major monument in Montevideo, located at the intersection of 18 de Julio Avenue and Artigas Boulevard. Inaugurated in 1938, it honors the writers of Uruguay's first Constitution, which was enacted on July 18, 1830. The obelisk stands 40 meters tall and was designed by Uruguayan sculptor José Luis Zorrilla de San Martín. It is constructed from pink granite and has a triangular base. On each of the three sides of its base are allegorical bronze statues representing 'Law', 'Liberty', and 'Force'. The obelisk's location marks the entrance to Parque Batlle and is a major urban crossroads. The monument is not just a tribute to a historical event but also a powerful symbol of the democratic values and the rule of law that form the foundation of the Uruguayan nation.
- Location: Uruguay
- Top sights: Monumento al Doctor Julio Carrere · Plaza de La Democracia · Universidad de Montevideo (Capilla)
- Nearby: Toledo (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
This imposing landmark is situated in a busy public intersection, freely accessible for outdoor viewing at any time. Visitors can walk right up to the base of the granite structure to closely observe the three prominent bronze statues that adorn its lower section.
Typical hours
Because it is prominently placed in a major urban public space, the obelisk can be viewed twenty-four hours a day, all year round. Daytime visits are generally better for seeing the specific sculptural details, though it is often illuminated during the evening.
Photography
Taking photographs is permitted without any restrictions, though you must be mindful of the surrounding traffic. Capturing the entire height of the obelisk usually requires stepping back towards the park edge, especially using a wide-angle lens for the best dramatic effect.
Time needed
A typical visit lasts roughly ten to twenty minutes, which is usually more than enough time to walk around the monument, read the inscriptions, and take several photos. It serves more as a brief historical landmark stop rather than a full half-day attraction.
Combine with
It is perfectly positioned to be combined with a longer walk down the bustling Avenida 18 de Julio, which is packed with historical architecture, or a relaxing stroll into the adjacent Parque Batlle to see the other famous monuments located nearby.
Getting there
The obelisk marks the very prominent intersection of Bulevar Artigas and Avenida 18 de Julio, making it exceptionally easy to reach by multiple city bus lines. It is virtually impossible to miss if you are traveling by taxi or bus along these primary urban arteries.
Insider tip
Pay close attention to the three bronze figures at the base; they represent Law, Liberty, and Force, the core guiding principles of the first Uruguayan constitution. Stand on the park side rather than the traffic side to get the safest and most unobstructed view.
Geography
Facts
- Sculptor: José Luis Zorrilla de San Martín
- Inaugurated: 1938
- Height: 40 meters
- Material: Pink granite and bronze
- Commemorates: First Constitution of 1830
- Allegorical statues: Law, Liberty, Force
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Obelisk to the Constituents (5)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Can one go up the Obelisco a los Constituyentes?
No, the monument is not intended for visitors to go up.
Obelisk to the Constituents: where is it located?
Obelisk to the Constituents is located in Uruguay.
Obelisk to the Constituents: what is there to see?
Highlights include Monumento al Doctor Julio Carrere, Plaza de La Democracia, Universidad de Montevideo (Capilla).
Obelisk to the Constituents: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Mar, Nov, Dec.
Obelisk to the Constituents: why is it worth visiting?
The Obelisk to the Constituents of 1830 is a major monument in Montevideo, located at the intersection of 18 de Julio Avenue and Artigas Boulevard.
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