Palacio Baburizza (Baburizza Palace), Valparaiso

Palacio Baburizza stands as the former residence of Croatian businessman Pascual Baburizza. Constructed in 1916 by Italian architects, the palace was initially commissioned by the influential Zanelli family. In 1925, Pascual Baburizza, a prominent investor in saltpeter mines, acquired the palace. Known for accumulating substantial wealth in Chile, Baburizza devoted a significant portion of his fortune to philanthropic endeavors.

In 1971, the local government of Valparaíso purchased the palace, transforming it into a museum and a school of Fine Arts. The museum boasts an impressive collection of artworks, many of which were bequeathed by Pascual Baburizza himself. Renowned painters such as Mauricio Rugendas, Alfredo Valenzuela Puelma, Alfredo Helsby, and Carlos Hermosilla Álvarez are among the contributors to this noteworthy collection.

Closed for renovations in 1997, the museum reopened its doors in 2011. The architectural charm of Palacio Baburizza lies in its art nouveau chalet design, adorned with intricate woodwork, wrought iron details, and a distinctive central turret.

The palace exhibits an eclectic style with evident Art Nouveau elements on its façade, featuring ornamental towers, columns, balconies, bow-windows, terraces, and attics. Inside, a remarkable carved wooden copper-coated door welcomes visitors. The dining room showcases a unique Renaissance-style fireplace constructed from marble, adorned with embossed medallions and braids. Above it, an exquisite linen tapestry from the 18th century adds to the palace's rich interior decor.