MUSEO HISTÓRICO Y ANTROPOLÓGICO VAN DE MAELE

Various rooms present the Germanic influence in the region, an example of what a rich colonial house looked like in the ^18th century, explanations of the lives of Lord Cochrane and Fray Camilo Henríquez (who took part in the country's independence)... A fine archaeological exhibition on the second floor displays a collection of silverware, ceramics, textiles and basketry corresponding to the Pitrén Complex (300 BC - 1200 AD) and the Valdivia style (1400-1800). Admire the finesse of Mapuche fabrics and trawuras, beautifully coloured belts. Silver was traditionally associated with the silvery light of dawn and the mysterious glow of the moon. A woman's adornment, but also that of the warrior who loved to adorn his horses with it, silver conferred magical powers associated with abundance and fertility. In Araucania, it was said that "a silver ornament under your pillow will give you wonderful dreams". The symbolism and magical power of these jewels also stem from their sonorous nature, as Mapuche jewelry (bracelets, earrings, necklaces or pectorals) produce an enchanting tinkling sound when they clash. But above all, jewelry is a strong symbol of social belonging, which, in a community where lineage intermingling is highly complex, is not one of its least important aspects. The woman adorned with the finest finery was the one whose father or husband possessed the most wealth or power.