In Argentina, in the Atlantic Ocean, there is a small island called Martín García. It is part of the province of Buenos Aires and is located near the border with Uruguay in the La Plata estuary, at an altitude of 65 m above sea level. The area of the island is 1.84 square meters. km, and the population is only 170 people. Today it is a popular tourist destination.
In 1516, the Italian explorer Sebastian Cabot became the discoverer of the island. In the 19th century, an active struggle was waged for Martin Garcia between Brazil and Argentina. Also, the fleets of England and France fought near it. For this reason, the garrison of the infantry regiment was permanently located here.
In 1973, Uruguay signed a treaty that recognized the island as Argentina, but the document indicated that this area is a nature reserve. This is the only land border between these countries.
Since 1765, the island of Martin Garcia was used as a prison fortress, and in the 20th century it was a place for exile for political prisoners. The overthrown presidents were sent here: Juano Peron, Ipolito Irigoyena, Arturo Frondisi.
At present, the territory of the island is constantly growing, it increases by 3-5 m per year. According to scientists, Martin Garcia will soon connect with the Parana River delta.
