Constitution Square, Public square in Ciudad Vieja, Montevideo, Uruguay

Plaza Matriz, also known as Plaza de la Constitución, is the oldest square in Montevideo, located in the Ciudad Vieja neighborhood. It is surrounded by important buildings such as the Metropolitan Cathedral and the Cabildo, and features diagonal paths lined with trees, benches, and lanterns.

Founded in 1726, two years after Montevideo, the square was a dusty plain until the late 18th century, when buildings were constructed around it. In 1851, it was redesigned with diagonal paths, trees, paving, benches, and lanterns.

The square is a hub for local life, where residents often sit on the benches or stroll along the paths. The name Matriz comes from the nearby cathedral, which served as the mother church of the city.

The square is easy to reach on foot from anywhere in the old town, and its central location makes it a natural meeting point. Benches and shade trees offer places to rest while you explore the surrounding streets.

A steam pumping plant and a 60 km pipeline were built in 1868 to supply the city with water, and a fountain on the square received the water. The square also once hosted bullfights in an arena located on the site.