Nueva Palmira, Port city in Colonia Department, Uruguay.
Nueva Palmira is a port city on the eastern bank of the Uruguay River that serves as the country's second largest commercial port. The settlement extends along the riverfront with streets running parallel and perpendicular to the water, with port facilities and warehouses forming a visible part of the urban landscape.
The settlement was founded in 1831 by Felipe Santiago Torres Leiva under the name Higueritas. It was officially granted city status through Law 11961 on July 1, 1953.
The central plazas, particularly Plaza de los 33 Patriotas and Plaza Artigas with its monument to José Gervasio Artigas, serve as gathering spaces where the community meets for events and daily activities. These open areas reflect how locals use their public spaces and give visitors a sense of daily life here.
The city's main streets, General J.G. Artigas and Felipe Fontana, intersect at the southeastern end and connect directly to Route 21 and the port area. The river port sits close to the town center, making it easy to explore both the urban area and waterfront activities.
The city is home to four distinct beaches—Playa Higuerita, Playa Eolo, Playa Corbacho, and Playa Los Vascos—each offering different settings and uses for swimming and relaxation. This variety of river beaches is surprising for visitors expecting only a working port town.
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