Casapueblo is One of Uruguay’s Most Picturesque Architectural Wonders

Photo: Re Uruguayo/Wikimedia Commons

Punta del Este is one of Uruguay’s most popular resorts, with many charming and picturesque spots. Abstract white building Casapueblo is one of its most Instagram-friendly attractions, and it serves more than a single purpose.

Uruguayan artist Carlos Páez Vilaró started building Casapueblo all the way back in 1958, as his summer house and workshop. Vilaró described it as a “livable sculpture,” and claimed he built it without plans, simply adding to the building over the decades before finally completing it.

The whitewashed cement and stucco walls of Casapueblo are often compared to similar buildings in Santorini. This wasn’t the only source of inspiration Vilaró used, since he also wanted the building to be reminiscent of the nest of the hornero, a common bird species in Uruguay.

Casapueblo does not only serves its original purpose—it now houses a museum, an art gallery, and a café. A lavish hotel also opened on its premises, making this building even more popular with tourists looking for luxurious accommodation.

Casapueblo is located less than 15 km away from Punta del Este, so you can easily reach it by car or public transportation. It’s open to visitors all-year-round, but keep in mind the museum only works on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays between 12:30pm–8:30pm.