San José de Mayo

San José de Mayo is a city in southern Uruguay where Routes 3 and 11 intersect. It sits along the banks of the San José River and hosts meat processing, dairy, leather, and furniture manufacturing that shape its economic life.

The settlement was founded in 1783 when Eusebio Vidal organized a relocation for Spanish colonists leaving Patagonian settlements. During the 1825 uprising against Brazil, it served temporarily as Uruguay's capital.

The Teatro Macció shows the artistic tradition that took root here in the early 1900s. It reflects how residents valued their local identity through such buildings.

The city is easily reached via Routes 3 and 11 and offers good connections to Montevideo. Visitors will find practical services here including shops, cafés, and local restaurants for a comfortable stay.

The city has maintained its economic importance while many other regional centers have faded. This makes it a genuine example of how regional industry shapes life in Uruguay.

Location: San José Department

Inception: 1783

Elevation above the sea: 51 m

Website: http://imsj.gub.uy

GPS coordinates: -34.33333,-56.71667

Latest update: December 7, 2025 10:08