Aduana de Los Queñes, Historical customs building in Romeral, Chile.
Aduana de Los Queñes is a stone complex in Romeral consisting of two equal structures with four circular towers topped by pointed roofs positioned at each corner facing cardinal directions. The towers are evenly distributed around the compound to create a symmetrical defensive design.
The facility opened in 1864 to monitor livestock movement between Chile and Argentina across the Andes. Operations ended in 1960, closing a century-long chapter of border control at this mountain crossing.
The building displays typical 19th-century border construction methods with thick stone walls and oak elements designed to withstand mountain conditions. Its design reflects practical choices made to endure harsh weather and high-altitude environments.
The building sits at the junction where the Teno and Claro rivers meet, perched about 10 meters above road level in the Maule region. Visiting requires good weather conditions and layers for cooler mountain temperatures.
The building was constructed with towers at all four corners, resembling a medieval fortress more than a typical customs post. This defensive design makes it an unusual example among South American border facilities.
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