Plaza Viña del Mar is for many, the remembered site marker of Sausalito as a testament to a visit from their past. It is not uncommon to hear people say, “Meet me by the elephants,” for which they mean, Plaza Viña del Mar. Most do not know that Viña del Mar translates to "Vineyard of the Sea,” and is a Chilean city on the coast in the Province of Valparaiso which is also Sausalito’s sister city. Like Sausalito, Viña del Mar is best known as a waterfront vacation destination with many beaches, tourist destinations and sightseeing opportunities. Viña del Mar is also known for their “Festival Internacional de la Canción de Viña del Mar,” which is hosted in the “Quinta Vergara Amphitheater.” Perhaps not unsurprising are the resemblances of both cities with their rich waterfront histories and bustling exchanges.
I want to visit Viña del Mar, Chile!
The elephant sculptures and fountain were designed by Sausalito architect William Faville and donated to Sausalito in 1916. They were relocated after the 1915 Panama Pacific Exposition. Atop the elephants where there are now lights, at one time served as base housing for which flagpoles were supposed to sit. The lights were added in 1936!
Pictures of Plaza Viña del Mar taken @ Bridgeway, Anchor and El Portal.
I remember the elephants as we entered town - Nickie is going to love them :)
ReplyDeleteGreat posts! I can't wait to get back to Sausalito and a trip to Chile sounds grand too! Maybe we'll take the Sea Urchin?
I so didn't know any of that history. :) Great research :)
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