Museo del Gaucho and Currency

Excellent presentation of the history of gauchos in Uruguay, paired with another museum within a museum of Uruguay’s historical currency and coinage. The main banking hall of the Banco de la República del Uruguay (BROU) has been transformed into a delightful series of galleries depicting various aspects of Uruguay’s iconic gauchos, their history and culture. Cleverly, the old teller stations within the banking hall contain the museum’s coinage and currency exhibits — So the two museum collections are kept separated physically and visually, while sharing the one large hall. For the physically handicapped: A handicapped accessible ramp is located on Zabala (the bank staff entrance) — you will need to identify yourself as a visitor to the Museum and security will call a staff member to escort you to the museum hall. Handicapped visitors are encouraged to call ahead of time or make an on-line reservation so that a staff member is available and able to assist you as needed.

A museum primarily about the culture and history of gauchos seems incongruous inside the magnificent neoclassical bank main hall, but who cares!? Free. Friendly staff. Nice bathrooms. And it made me curious to learn more.

We came across the Museo del Gaucho y de la Moneda by accident, while out on our own walking tour of Montevideo, and it was an interesting and enjoyable visit. We were welcomed by the staff and encouraged to explore the many exhibits, which describe the lifestyle and legacy of the South American gauchos, and we were particularly impressed by the level of detail provided, including the expansive collections of horse gear. Housed in the head office of the Banco República, the museum also has a substantial section detailing the development of currency units in Uruguay. It’s an eclectic space that offers a unique glimpse of Uruguay’s rich history.

What an interesting place. I love how the stately building is repurposed as a museum.

Such a beautiful museum to visit and it free to enter.

A large crowd of tourist stood outside near the entrance with their tour guide. I entered the building by pressing my hands on the metal rod of the revolving door.The impressive former bank with marble, tall ceiling and Gaucho Museum shows the Culture of Uruguay. Vhuntermassage LLC

This building is so majestic inside. The architecture alone is worth a visit. On top of that, the museum is, wait for it, FREE!

Suck a beautiful building inside and out. A working bank and a guacho/money museum. Free entry and a very enjoyable walk through