Fortaleza del Cerro

This stone fortress crowns the hill on the western side of Montevideo Bay from which the city takes part of its name. Built in the early nineteenth century to defend the harbour, it later served military purposes and now houses a military museum. Its ramparts offer sweeping views across the bay to the port and the city skyline. A lighthouse stands nearby, and the surrounding hill remains an emblem of the capital, appearing on the national coat of arms.