Blast from the Past

What famous people have visited Montevideo? One that comes to mind is Albert Einstein. I found his diary (thanks to Boston University's archives: "The Reception of Relativity in Uruguay") that reveal the inner workings of a curious mind. The observations in the diary are more humorous than I expected. For example, when meeting the Jewish Russian Rosenblatt family he notes that they have three children, 2 who are married and one who has a boyfriend. The great scientist philosopher goes on to say that she's not pretty, but she has "a good heart". He also remarks offhandedly that a building is almost complete. He was referring to the Legislative Palace, one of the most beautiful buildings ever (See above). In general, he says that he found authentic cordiality in Uruguay, a small and happy country. He says the climate is agreeably hot and humid and boasts exemplary social laws: 8-hour workdays, protection for mothers and children, welfare for seniors and illegitimate children, etc.) He remarks how beautiful small countries are because they're not drunk with the delirium of grandeur. To hell with big countries, basically, if they had things their way they would divide all countries amongst themselves. What I like best is the honesty of the man.

Review of "A Bay Fortified"

Last night, the foundation "At the Foot of the Wall" sponsored a viewing of "A Bay Fortified" which shows the ancient strategic point of Isla Gorriti in its present-day state. The filmographer Alejandro Ferrari spent two months filming in the state of Maldonado. During the time of colonization, this island was the gateway to the Rio de la Plata, and thus, the entire Southern cone region.
The fort was built by Guarani Indians who were captured and sent to work on the fort. The Spanish military personnel were exceptional builders, or at least good project managers, as fort-building was one of their most important duties. They armed Isla Gorriti to the teeth. Since the island sits in front of the first natural port to be found south of Florianopolis (Brazil), defense structures were set up to block entrance from either side of the bay. But the biggest ruins are found on the open-ocean side where the cannons with 24-kilo shot could reach the furthest, threatening anything within 2 kilometers away.
The was a nautical gem because of its freshwater resources. Ships crossing the Atlantic Ocean were aware of a "secret" spot where they could fill casks with freshwater while barely getting off the ship. Strategically, the island sits in front of valuable land holdings. Spain stood to incorporate Rio Grande (today, Brazil) into its colonial possessions.
Most people who go to Punta del Este don't realize that the area was secured thanks to a formidable military structure that today is in ruins. They also don't realize that the first whaling company in South America was founded here because no signs, much less a museum, exist. Thanks to Mr. Ferrari, we all know a little bit more.