Uruguay geographic map

Uruguay on a map of South America. Geographic map of Uruguay. Full information about Uruguay on the one geographical map with cities, rivers, mountains and places of interest.

Uruguay is South America's second smallest independent country, after Suriname. It is a land of grassy plains and hills.    

About 90 percent of the people now live in  cities and towns. Native Americans once occupied Uruguay, but only a few  Amerindians remain. The country was part of a Spanish colony until 1828  People of European descent make up 86 percent of the population,  mestizos 8 percent, and descendants of black Africans 6 percent.    

Area: 177.414 sq km (68.500 sq miles)    

Highest point: Mirador Nacional. 501 m (1,644 ft)    

Population: 3.203.000    

Capital and largest cities Montevideo (pop 1,379.000)    

Other large cities: Salto (80,000) Paysand (76.000)    

Official language: Spanish    

Religions: Christianity (Roman Catholic 78%, Protestant 8%). other 14%    

Government: Republic    

Currency: Peso    

Textiles arc among the leading manufactures  produced in Uruguay. Other manufactures include beer, cement, and  processed food. Uruguay is one of the more prosperous of the developing  countries in South America.    

Livestock farming is the most valuable form  of agriculture in Uruguay. Sheep and cattle ranches make up four-fifths  of the land. Major products include beef, hides and leather goods, and  wool. Crops include mai/e. potatoes, sugar beets, and wheat.    

Montevideo, Uruguay's capital and chief  port, stands on the coast where the Rio de la Plata estuary meets the  Atlantic Ocean. Founded in 1726. Montevideo and its suburbs contain most  of Uruguay's industries.    

Tourism is a leading activity, employing  many people in the coastal resorts. About two million people visit  Uruguay's sandy beaches every year. The tourists come mainly from  Argentina.    

Unman Catholicism is the chief faith in Uruguay, as it is in most of  South America. The country's arts are also greatly influenced by  Spanish culture, though local themes, such as gaucho legends, are also  popular.    

Gaucho rodeos attract many spectators, but  soccer is the most popular sport. Uruguay has a fine record in  international soccer competitions. Other sports include basketball and  rugby.