FRIGORÍFICO DE PUERTO BORIES

At the time, it was the most important industrial refrigeration complex in Magallanes. Today, it bears witness to the greatness (and decadence) of Patagonia's livestock industry. It was built by pioneer Rodolfo Stubenrauch, who imported 300 sheep from the Falkland Islands in 1877, then by the Société d'Exploitation de Terre de Feu from 1893 onwards. A railroad provided access from the town of Puerto Natales. By 1914, the structure was more or less complete, although a washhouse (for wool) was not built until 1923. At its peak, in 1932-1942 (when 700 workers were employed), production amounted to 207,000 shorn wools (170,000 of which were frozen, representing some 3,000 tons), plus 340,000 kg of lambskin and 150,000 kg of sheephide. The factory even had its own fleet of steamships. Then came decadence, and the refrigeration plant ceased operations for good in 1970. The English-style architecture is interesting and worth a look. An entire village was built around this industrial hub... which explains the existence of the small town of Puerto Natales today.

In 1996, Chile declared the complex a historic monument. In 2011, a luxury hotel opened its doors: the Singular (a marvel of comfort and architecture). Inside, you can visit the well-restored former refrigeration plant (free if you stay at the hotel).