Well, it’s actually both days of a weekend, in september each year. Many public buildings, musuems, galleries, historic buildings, theatres, places many of them that usually charge entrance give free entry, groups give free public performances, and so on – so that citizens can visit venues and through enjoying them and the displays they often contain, make themselves more aware of Uruguayan culture and history – a great example that could be taken up by Australia, for sure. So, last year we missed going into a building I have always admired, the Russian embassy, and so that was first on the list, and the interior was just as fascinating as I thought it would be. It was not orignally built as an embassy but was once a family’s home and has always seemed to me to be a classical slightly intriguing south american mansion, pillars and palms, and lovely proportions. From there we hurtled onto the Uruguay Club, and then down to the port where naval ships were decked out in flags, a band was playing, people going on and off ships , lots of activity all round. Since the Navy’s HQ, one of my favourite buildings, I have shown it before, is just opposite the Mercado del Puerto, what else could we do but enjoy lunch there. ..again! We had Aus visitors and some Uruguayan friends with us, and a table reserved out in the sunny fresh air, well located to enjoy the passing parade.