MUNICIPAL TEATRO

Inaugurated in 1890, this neoclassical theatre was built by the architect Bieldhauser. Its façade is decorated with four female figures symbolizing the four seasons of the year. Intended to host theatrical and lyrical performances and other cultural events highly prized by the saltpetre bourgeoisie, it has seen the greatest international artists parade on its stage. It was inaugurated on December 21, 1889 with Verdi's famous opera Il Trovatore by the Grandi company. Under the dome of the foyer, four cherubs symbolize dance, painting, music and sculpture. The main hall features a central chandelier weighing over 300 kg and sumptuous armchairs. The central dome shows scenes from Greek mythology. You can visit the complex mechanism of the theatre which was used for tricks, special effects and other deus ex machina. On the first floor, the International Hall hosts various cultural and social activities. The municipality sometimes organizes temporary exhibitions here.

Leaving Plaça Prat by the Municipal Theatre, you can continue your walk along Calle Baquedano, lined with Georgian-style houses built between 1880 and 1930 by wealthy saltpeter industrialists. These houses have facades with wooden columns, balconies and covered terraces. Here again, Oregon pine is the main material used, but some of the walls were made of cane from Guayaquil, Ecuador.