Plaza Baquedano

Plaza Baquedano (/bakedano/), commonly known as Plaza Italia is a major landmark in Santiago, Chile. The plaza was inaugurated in 1928, being crowned by a monument made by Chilean sculptor Virgínio Arias and featuring General Manuel Baquedano, giving the current name to the urban landmark. It is located where formerly the Mapocho River used to fork. The oval-shaped plaza is the focal point of celebrations and riots in the city. The area also serves as a hub for Santiago's street network. Some of the main streets of Santiago intersect in the area, including Avenida Providencia, Avenida Libertador General Bernardo O'Higgins and Avenida Vicuña Mackenna. A tunnel entrance to the Costanera Norte Highway is close to Plaza Baquedano. Parque Forestal, Balmaceda Park and Bustamante Park converge here.

Plaza Baquedano in 2010
Plaza Baquedano in 1938

History

It was established in 1875 as Plaza La Serena and adopted its current name in 1928 to honor Manuel Baquedano.[1] It was originally a traffic circle but its geometric design and functionality have changed since then.

Baquedano metro station is named after Plaza Baquedano.

In the context of the 2019 protests, the protesters have dubbed the square as Plaza Dignidad or Plaza de la Dignidad (Dignity Square).[2]

References
  1. "A la inauguración del monumento al General Baquedano asistieron S. E. y Ministros de Estado" (PDF). La Nación (in Spanish). 19 September 1298.
  2. "Chile and a global revolution for dignity". OpenGlobalRights. Retrieved 2020-01-03.

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