Cárcel Pública de Pisagua, Historical prison in Huara, Chile.
Carcel Publica de Pisagua is a two-story neoclassical structure with a central courtyard and walls built from adobe and Oregon pine wood. The building was restored after earthquake damage in 2005 and remains an important architectural landmark in the region.
The building opened in 1910 during the nitrate mining boom that brought wealth to the region through salt extraction. Later governments used it to hold political opponents during periods of social unrest.
The site shows how imprisonment operated in an isolated desert town during the early 20th century through its architecture and layout. Visitors can see the daily conditions prisoners faced by walking through the cell blocks and courtyards.
The site is walkable and accessible through several entrances, though some areas have narrow stairs and tight passages. Comfortable shoes are recommended and allow time to explore all the rooms.
A special section called 'Presidio Especial' operated within the building from 1942 to 1952 for a particular group of detainees. This separated area reveals how the facility adapted its operations over different decades.
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