Aduanas Building, Montevideo

The Aduanas Building is a six-story administrative structure on the Rambla in Montevideo, distinguished by its central tower crowned with a glass dome in Art Deco style. It houses both the National Customs Directorate and Navy offices, combining functional workspace with a distinctive landmark presence at the waterfront.

The structure was designed following a public competition in 1922 with 19 participating architects and was completed in 1931. This construction period reflected Uruguay's economic growth and its ambition to establish a modern port city with contemporary architecture.

The building represents Uruguay's connection to international trade and maritime commerce, positioned prominently where merchants and officials conducted business for generations. Its architectural style expressed the modernist ideals that shaped cities across the Americas during that era.

The building sits along the Rambla waterfront and is easily accessible on foot from the city center through the scenic promenade. Since it functions as an active administrative center, visitors should confirm whether interior access is available, as visits are typically limited or may only be viewed from the exterior.

The building contains 16 elevators integrated throughout its structure, an impressive network for efficient vertical circulation in the 1930s. This extensive elevator system was engineered to handle daily traffic and maximize functionality within one of the port's most important administrative centers.

Location: Montevideo

Architects: Jorge Herrán

GPS coordinates: -34.90467,-56.21210

Latest update: December 14, 2025 18:14