If you're looking to discover Uruguay from a different perspective, Flores is a destination worth considering. This small department in the heart of the country doesn't reveal itself through grand monuments or crowds of visitors, but rather through the simplicity of its landscapes, the warmth of its people, and unmissable natural sites that deserve your attention.

History and the Story Behind Its Name

Flores' history began long before its official creation. In 1825, the Thirty-Three Orientals fought the Battle of Sarandí on these lands and defeated Brazilian forces, giving fresh momentum to the struggle for independence. President Máximo Santos created the department of Flores on December 30, 1885, by separating part of the San José department. He named the new department after Venancio Flores, a brigadier born in Trinidad.

Discovering Flores

The department of Flores is located in the southwest of Uruguay. Its capital, Trinidad, is home to around 25,000 residents, making it the least populated department in the country. The majority of the population lives in the city, while 15% reside in rural areas.

Flores is surrounded by several other departments. To the north, the Río Negro River separates it from the department of the same name. To the east, it borders Durazno and Florida. To the south, it shares boundaries with San José and Colonia, and to the west with Soriano, with which it hosts the Bartolomé Hidalgo Park—perfect for nature walks.

It also stands out for its geological and paleontological heritage. The Grutas del Palacio Geopark invites you to explore its caves and underground waters at a constant temperature of around 20 °C. These formations date back to water movements that occurred millions of years ago, during the Cretaceous and Paleocene-Eocene periods. You'll even discover dinosaur eggs here, which earned the site inclusion in the national system of protected areas.

It thus attracts travelers curious about nature, geotourism, and ancient history. Its landscapes, natural wonders, and tranquility offer an experience different from Uruguay's more frequented destinations.

What to See?

Start with the Dr. Rodolfo Talice Flora and Fauna Reserve. You'll observe animals in their natural habitat and learn to better understand their behavior. Not far away, the Grutas del Palacio Geopark spans 75 hectares around a large lake. It is home to 1,500 animals from 150 species, from Uruguay and other regions. Since 2013, the geopark has been part of UNESCO's Global Geoparks Network. The reserve opened its doors on July 30, 1991 as part of the "Flores for Life" project.

Next, take time to visit the Plaza Constitución, Trinidad's lively center. You'll see important institutions and locals gathering to chat or take a stroll. In the evening, the fountain and lighting create a pleasant atmosphere. During Christmas, decorations make the square even more welcoming and festive.

Don't miss the rock paintings of Chamangá, which bear witness to several millennia of history. The Cerro de Ojosmín, meanwhile, captivates with its spectacular geological formation, nicknamed the "tectonic window," which offers a unique vantage point over the surrounding landscape.

Finally, visit the Departmental Historical Museum and Exhibition Center. Housed in a former railway station, it tells Flores' story through fossils, historical objects, and carts from the previous century. Each room immerses you in daily life from earlier times and helps you better understand local life throughout the centuries.

Climate

Uruguay enjoys a subtropical climate, with warm summers and mild winters. The average temperature hovers around 17 °C and rainfall remains regular throughout the year.