Uruguay celebrates Heritage Day with focus on indigenous roots

Uruguay is celebrating Heritage Day on October 3 and 4, with this year’s theme focused on “Indigenous Roots: Past, Present, and Future.” The initiative aims to recognize the indigenous communities that have shaped the country’s demographic and cultural identity alongside Creole, Afro-descendant, and European migrant populations.

In Cerro Largo, the Ministry of Education and Culture, supported by the local government, has organized various activities. These include extended museum hours at sites such as the Regional Historical Museum, Casa de Juana, and La Posta del Chuy. Special programming includes an exhibition on indigenous memory at the Cathedral and a technology-integrated activity called “Seguir el Hilo” at the Bio Parque.

While many regions are active, some local heritage sites face challenges. In Paysandú, the AFE workshops will not be open for guided tours despite the historical significance of the recovered steam locomotive “La 88.” However, AFE will maintain a presence in other areas, including train excursions and activities at the Peñarol Station in Montevideo and in Tacuarembó.