The building of the main command of the Navy (Valparaiso)


In the central square of Valparaiso , Plaza Sotomayor , there is a building that gives pride to every Chilean - the headquarters of the main command of the country's navy, Armada de Chile. The structure of a pleasant bluish-gray color with a gracefully executed façade is the pearl of the architectural complex of the square. In addition, it recalls the difficult days of the formation of Chilean democracy.

History of the building

A large five-story building of the Navy's main command in the neoclassical style with artistic decoration is an object of historical and cultural heritage. This status allows you to carry out all necessary restorations in time and maintain the building in excellent condition. Until 1929, his left wing was used as a presidential summer residence, later moved to a new country palace. For some time, the Valparaiso Governorate was located here. Since the mid 80s of the 20th century, the building has been head of the Chilean naval forces.

The building of the main command of the Chilean Navy - today

Visit Sotomayor Square is included in all walking tours of Valparaiso. During the excursion along the central part of the building of the main command of the Navy, you can see the luxurious interiors of the ceremonial halls for ceremonies and receptions of high-ranking guests. Many objects in the interiors have been preserved since the pre-revolutionary times, including the amazing beauty of lamps. In front of the building of the Chilean fleet are monuments to Admiral Arturo Prat and his sailors. They died during the naval battle on May 21, 1879, off the coast of Iquique in an unequal battle with the fleet of the Bolivian-Peruvian coalition. Every year on May 21 the country celebrates the day of the Sea Glory, and on this day the square is transformed. The majestic building of the main command of the fleet together with the monuments testifies to the glorious pages in the history of Chile and is a confirmation of the fact that Valparaiso remains the main base of the Chilean fleet to this day.

How to get there?

The building is located in the center of Valparaiso , in Sotomayor Square, five minutes walk from the terminal station Puerto. Through the square there are several city bus routes, the nearest stops are Plaza Justicia and Serrano-Sotomayor. For trips around Valparaiso it is convenient to use local taxi services.