Palacio Estévez (Estévez Palace), Montevideo

The Estévez Palace, located on Independence Square (Plaza Independencia) in Montevideo, is a historic building with a rich narrative spanning over a century. Originally constructed in the 1870s by Captain Manoel de Castel for the Argentine financier Francisco Candelario Estévez, this neo-Classical and neo-Renaissance-styled structure has undergone significant transformations to serve various governmental functions.

Initially a private residence, the building became state property in 1878 following financial troubles faced by Estévez. Under the government of Lorenzo Latorre, the palace underwent substantial renovations, including expansions and facade enhancements, to become the seat of Uruguay's Executive Branch in 1880-a role it held until 1985. Key architectural features include Doric columns on the ground floor a prominent central balcony, alongside a colonnaded portico, and a triangular pediment displaying the National Coat of Arms.

Throughout the 20th century, the palace saw further modifications, notably in response to the 1952 Constitution which introduced a Collegiate Executive. These changes continued under various administrations, culminating in the establishment of the Government House Museum on the first floor in 1999. This museum, along with state ceremonies, marks the palace's current use after the administrative offices moved to the adjacent Executive Tower in 2005.

The building was designated a National Historical Monument in 1975, reflecting its importance in Uruguay's architectural and political heritage. The most recent major restoration and artistic enhancement occurred in 1987, led by artist Manuel Espínola Gómez and architect Enrique Benech. Today, the Estévez Palace, renamed the Independence Building (Edificio Independencia) in 2009, stands as a testament to the historical and cultural evolution of Uruguay.