Valparaiso shelters a number of immigrant cultures in the city; German, Italian, Croatian, Spanish, Irish and British. Saint Paul’s Anglican Church of Valparaiso is a contribution from the British community. It was the first protestant church built in Chile. The church is one of the places in the city where you can get a really close look at the European immigration of the end of the 19th and beginning of the 20th century.
Its English Neo Gothic style is the reflection of its period, when religious freedom did not exist and protestants had to handle a low profile. At the time it was built, 1858, Chile was a Catholic country. The church was required by the Catholics in control not to have any outward sign of religious affiliation. Exterior crosses and icons were banned.
Its most complex and beautiful treasure is the Queen Victoria Memorial Organ, an imposing musical instrument that was designed exclusively for this church and was installed about 1902, in homage to the Queen who passed away in 1901. It was donated by the British community of Valparaíso and was designed by William Lloyd and built by the Fosters & Andrews Company in Britain.
Considered the best of its type in South America it has been restored and is constantly repaired and taken care of by a specialized musician. Every Sunday, at 12:30, free concerts are given for the public. The day we were there the pastor played sacred pieces of British origin.
The architectural details of the church reflect its era and its ties to its British Anglican roots.
We enjoy exploring the architecture of the countries we visit. The buildings illuminate the history of the place and its people. St. Paul’s is a great example.
MedFlies 