Melo, Administrative capital in Cerro Largo Department, Uruguay
Melo is the administrative capital of Cerro Largo Department in northeastern Uruguay, located at approximately 80 meters elevation. The town spreads across several residential and commercial districts linked by main thoroughfares.
Melo was founded in 1795 by Captain Agustín de la Rosa as a strategic outpost against Portuguese expansion from the north. The town's early importance centered on protecting Spanish territorial interests along the contested frontier.
The Regional History Museum and birthplace of poet Juana de Ibarbourou preserve local heritage through exhibitions and educational programs.
The town sits at the intersection of Route 7 and Route 8, making it a direct gateway to Brazil via the border crossing at Aceguá. This location shapes the rhythm of daily commerce and the flow of traffic through the area.
In 1988, Pope John Paul II visited the town and drew thousands of pilgrims, an event that was later featured in a film. This moment remains a notable chapter in the town's recent history.
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