Culture of Uruguay
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The culture of Uruguay is rich, reflecting that the country dates back to the 16th century. They enjoy music such as tango, folk and waltz. The country is obsessed with soccer and were olympic champions several times.
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Arts
Juan Manuel Blanes (1830-1901), Uruguay's most famous 19th century artist, painted large canvases depicting the life of the gaucho, the South American cowboy, and events from Uruguay's history. Pedro Figari (1861-1938) painted detailed scenes of daily life in Montevideo and the countryside. Joaquín Torres García (1874-1949) developed what is known as constructive universalism and influenced a generation of Uruguayan painters. The realistic sculptures of José Belloni (1880-1965) can be seen in public parks and plazas in Montevideo. They depict scenes from Uruguayan life, such as a stagecoach drawn by horses, or a wagon pulled by oxen.
Also see article Music of Uruguay.
Literature
One of Uruguay's most famous works of literature is Ariel, by José Enrique Rodó (1871-1917). Written in 1900, the book deals with the need to maintain spiritual values while pursuing material and technical progress. Florencio Sánchez (1875-1910) wrote plays about social problems that are still performed today. Juan Zorilla de San Martín (1855-1931) wrote epic poems about Uruguayan history. Juana de Ibarbourou (1895-1979) and Delmira Agustini (1866-1914) were also notable poets. Modern Uruguayan writers include Juan Carlos Onetti (author of No Man's Land and The Shipyard), Mario Benedetti and Eduardo Galeano.
Religion
Uruguay has no official religion, church and state are separated, and religious freedom is guaranteed. The majority of Uruguayans are Roman Catholics most likely because of heavy Spanish influences in the past. Other small religions do exist however such a small Jewish community in Montevideo and several evangelical Protestant groups.
Language
Spanish is the official language of Uruguay and is spoken by almost all of the population. English is common in the business world though it is a minority language just like French and Italian.
Food
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Uruguayans are known to eat a lot of meat. The parrillada (beef platter), chivito ( a substantial steak sandwich), and pasta are the national dishes. Despite Spanish origins, pasta became a main dish because the country received many Italian immigrants in the late 1800s and early 1900s. Another Uruguayan meal is the morcilla dulce, a type of blood sausage cooked with ground orange peels and walnuts. Snacks include olimpicos (club sandwiches), hungaros (spicy sausage in a hot dog roll) and masas surtidas, bite size pastries. Typical drinks include tea or mate, clerico which is a mixture of white wine and fruit juice, and medio y medio, part sparkling wine and part white wine.