Montevideo Department

Montevideo Department is an administrative region along the Río de la Plata coast and forms the smallest yet most populated area of Uruguay. The territory includes multiple neighborhoods with varying types of development and land use.

The region was founded on January 27, 1816, when José Artigas signed a decree establishing the first administrative divisions of the Provincia Oriental. This marked a turning point in how the territory was organized.

The department is divided into 62 neighborhoods where residents gather at local markets and celebrate shared festivals. Each area maintains its own traditions and shapes the everyday rhythm of life for people living there.

The Intendencia Departamental handles executive functions, while the Junta Departamental manages legislative duties from central offices located in the city. Visitors will find the region well-connected and easy to navigate using local transport.

With roughly 3,200 residents per square kilometer, this region holds Uruguay's highest population density. This sets it distinctly apart from all other administrative areas in the country.

Inception: January 27, 1816

Capital city: Montevideo

Elevation above the sea: 43 m

Part of: South America Midwest Integrated Zone

Shares border with: San José Department, Canelones Department

GPS coordinates: -34.88361,-56.18194

Latest update: December 13, 2025 17:16