Parque Mauá
Soriano
Parque Mauá is home to the Castillo Mauá, a notable historic estate originally belonging to the influential Barón and Vizconde de Mauá, Irineo Evangelista de Sousa. Constructed around 1860, the building combines neoclassical elements with traditional Uruguayan estancia architecture and Brazilian fazenda influences. The two-story structure houses the Museo Paleontológico Alejandro Berro on the ground floor, while the upper floor, accessible via an external horseshoe-shaped staircase adorned with Portuguese tiles and wrought iron railings, contains the main rooms now known as La Posada del Arte. The castle features terraces at both ends of the upper floor offering picturesque views, especially the northern Summer Terrace overlooking the majestic Río Negro landscape. Surrounding the castle are former outbuildings once used as warehouses and servant quarters, now mostly unused except for public restroom facilities on the north side. The estate also includes a wine cellar established by later owner Buenaventura Caviglia, which remains operational, producing Mauá wines. Parque Mauá stands as a significant cultural and historical attraction in Mercedes, reflecting the entrepreneurial history of its original owner and the region's rural heritage.
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Consejo: Visitors are advised to visit Parque Mauá during weekdays or weekends between 13:00 and 19:00 (weekdays) or 13:00 to 17:00 (weekends) to fully enjoy the castle and museum. Entrance is free, and guided tours of the museum and castle rooms are recommended to appreciate the historical context. Booking in advance is not mandatory but advisable during peak times. Comfortable footwear is suggested for exploring the terraces and surrounding areas. No specific discounts are noted, but visitors should check local tourism resources for any seasonal offers.
Datos interesantes
- •The popular name 'Castillo Mauá' refers to the estate's main house, not a traditional castle.
- •The horseshoe-shaped external staircase is decorated with Portuguese tiles and wrought iron railings, reflecting artistic influences.
- •The Museo Paleontológico Alejandro Berro is located on the ground floor of the castle.
- •The wine cellar added by Buenaventura Caviglia is still operational, producing Mauá wines.
- •The northern terrace offers panoramic views of the Río Negro, a highlight for visitors.
Historia
The Castillo Mauá was built around 1860 as the main house of a large rural estate acquired by Irineo Evangelista de Sousa, known as the Barón and Vizconde de Mauá, between 1857 and 1859.
The estate reflected the Baron's significant business ventures in Uruguay during that period.
Later, the property was owned by Italian Buenaventura Caviglia, who added a wine cellar that continues to produce Mauá wines today.
Over time, the castle transitioned from a private rural estate to a cultural site housing a paleontological museum and art inn, preserving its architectural and historical significance in Soriano.
Guía del lugar
Museo Paleontológico Alejandro Berro
Located on the ground floor of Castillo Mauá, this museum showcases paleontological collections significant to the region's natural history.
La Posada del Artecirca 1860
Situated on the upper floor, accessible via an external horseshoe-shaped staircase, this area contains the main rooms of the castle now used for cultural and artistic purposes.
Wine Cellar
Added by later owner Buenaventura Caviglia, this cellar continues to produce the renowned Mauá wines, maintaining the estate's viticultural tradition.
Contacto
Teléfono: 4532 2201