Uruguay honoured both the 200th anniversary of the declaration of independence and the 100-year milestone of the Palacio Legislativo

Montevideo-Yesterday marked a momentous dual celebration at Uruguay’s Legislative Palace, as the nation honored both the 200th anniversary of the declaration of independence and the 100-year milestone of the Palacio Legislativo.

The General Assembly convened in an extraordinary session, presided over by Vice President Carolina Cosse.

The ceremony opened with a video retrospective showcasing the palace’s history, from its 1904 groundbreaking to its grand inauguration on August 25, 1925 .

President Yamandú Orsi, alongside former President Julio María Sanguinetti, exvice presidents Lucía Topolansky and Beatriz Argimón, members of the Cabinet, legislators, diplomats, and other dignitaries attended the event.

Following the formal session, attendees moved to the elegant Hall of the Lost Steps (Salón de los Pasos Perdidos), where the SODRE Symphony Orchestra and National Choir performed a concert for more than 500 guests.

As the ceremony concluded, the national flags flanking the palace’s staircase were ceremoniously lowered—a poignant tribute to both independence and parliamentary heritage.

The celebrations continued beyond Montevideo: in Florida, a civic-military parade took place at the historic Piedra Alta, with President Orsi and the national cabinet attending the commemoration of the Bicentennial.

The Bicentennial year (2025) has been officially declared by decree and includes a full calendar of cultural, educational, sporting, and artistic events organized by a dedicated committee.