Perhaps you’ve heard of the hidden gem that is Punta Gorda. It is a barrio of Montevideo in Uruguay. Punta Gorda gets its name from its prominent promontory. Let me tell you more about this special place.
Punta Gorda sits nestled between Malvín to the west. It also borders Las Canteras to the northwest. Carrasco Norte and Carrasco lie to the northeast. The coastline defines its southern edge. The Rambla O’Higgins and Rambla República de México trace the coast. These avenues run along Punta Gorda’s shoreline. Here, you’ll discover the inviting beaches of Playa de los Ingleses and Playa Verde.
The Plaza de la Armada crowns the promontory. It was formerly known as Plaza Virgilio. The Plaza de la Armada is a park and a major tourist attraction. It offers amazing views. It is a fantastic spot to watch the sunset. The Plaza de la Armada is a public space with a unique layout. It feels more like a park than a traditional plaza.
Low walls define its borders. Rows of trees and dramatic bluffs also mark the edges. An enigmatic sculpture stands at the southern edge of the bluff. Eduardo Diaz Yepes, a Spanish-Uruguayan artist, created it. This bronze monument honors those fallen in service to the Armada. Its abstract design captures the poignant moment of death. Marine animals and grasping hands emerge from the formless mass. Its location makes it a peaceful retreat with unique landscape qualities.
The Molino de Perez stands as another landmark. It is a historic watermill. Today, it serves as a cultural center. The Molino de Perez has a rich history. The stone construction dates back to 1780-1790. It was once the city’s farthest point within Montevideo’s natural boundaries. Juan María Pérez acquired it in 1836. He was a powerful merchant. He transformed it into a productive milling industry. In 1840, it began operating as a mill.
The Molino de Perez sits below the bluffs of Punta Gorda. You can find it in the Veltroni passage. It is near the Rambla O’Higgins. It is opposite Playa Honda. Today, it is part of the Parque Arquitecto Eugenio Baroffio.
José Acossano managed the mill after Pérez died until 1895. Heavy rains in 1895 caused significant damage. Flooding from the Durandeau Park lagoon damaged the wheel and flooded the mill. After this incident, the mill became a place for rest. Horacio Arredondo restored its wheel in 1950. He replicated one from a mill in Abra de Perdomo, Maldonado. The original stone grinding wheels remain. The mill’s machinery is the building’s most attractive feature.
The Molino de Perez has two levels. The mezzanine is wooden. The 1950 restoration added paneling and openings. Original materials were impossible to find. Pedro Figari and his brother were visitors here. Domingo Arena, José Batlle y Ordóñez, Julio Guani also visited. Juan Campistegui and Juan Pedro Castro were frequent guests. Musicians like the Fatorusso and writers like Miguel Kertesz also came here.
Punta Gorda is more than just a location. It is a place with a unique architectural style. Its rambla, the Plaza de la Armada, and the Molino de Perez, all add to its charm. Punta Gorda offers a unique experience. It blends history, art, and natural beauty.