Florida

Florida, city, south-central Uruguay, on the Santa Lucía Chico River. Founded in 1809, the city processes the wheat, corn (maize), oats, sugar beets, linseed, and other products of the agricultural hinterland. Lumber mills and factories manufacturing textiles, mosaics, and hosiery also are located in the city.

The surrounding region is characterized by rolling hills. In addition to its agricultural activities, the area is noted for cattle and sheep ranching. Viticulture, dairying, and quarrying of granite, limestone, marble, and iron are also economically important.

The city of Florida has a poultry-farming school. Florida is situated on the main highway and railroad linking Montevideo and Rivera, and it has an airport. Pop. (2004) 32,128.