Old Town & Candombe Roots

OVERVIEW

See Montevideo’s most meaningful landmarks in Old Town and then visit the workshop of Candombe music legend Fernando Lobo Nuñez. While walking through the historical downtown, you will sense the reverence that Uruguayans have for their heritage monuments, especially Independence and Constitution squares, where you will pause to snap photos. The country’s Afro-Uruguayan music – known as Candombe – is also beloved, so much so that UNESCO has recognized it as an Intangible Cultural Heritage. While visiting the workshop of Nuñez, you will learn about his deep connection to Candombe and his master skills as a luthier that handcrafts musical instruments. It will be an eye-opening experience as Nuñez has dedicated his life to preserving and promoting Candombe, a music form that originated in Uruguay among the descendants of liberated African slaves. He lives in a family home built in 1837 in the Barrio Sur neighborhood, where his enslaved ancestors once lived.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Walk through Old Town at a leisurely pace with stops at the most historical landmarks.
• Visit the workshop of a world-renowned Candombe music legend and luthier.
• Learn how Candombe music originated in Uruguay and how it has remained relevant.
• Gain an appreciation for the musical instruments that are so essential to Candombe.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.