Facultad de Veterinaria

What if I told you that this building, right before your eyes, the Facultad de Veterinaria, was once inspired by a French masterpiece? Yes, you heard right. This grand institution, dedicated to the noble pursuit of animal care, shares its architectural lineage with the renowned École Nationale Vétérinaire d’Alfort in France. The Facultad de Veterinaria, founded in 1903, stands as a testament to Uruguay’s commitment to veterinary science. Its roots were humble, starting as an annex to the Faculty of Medicine with a mere nine students. But its growth was swift. In 1906, it became a school in its own right, later separating from the university to come under the Ministry of Industries in 1908. This move led to the acquisition of a sprawling five-hectare estate for the Facultad de Veterinaria, once owned by the Taranco family. And here’s where the French connection comes in. In 1910, the construction of a new building commenced, drawing heavily from the architectural design of the Alfort Veterinary School in France. Materials were shipped all the way from France to ensure authenticity and grandeur. The Facultad de Veterinaria is more than just bricks and mortar; it’s a living testament to Uruguay’s dedication to animal welfare, standing tall with its French-inspired architecture and rich history.