Palacio Piwonka, Palace in Santiago commune, Chile.
Palacio Piwonka is a palace built in 1918 that combines neoclassical design with rococo elements throughout its structure. The facade features columns supporting the upper levels, while an ornate Oregon pine front gate with opaline glass inlays marks the main entrance.
Ricardo Piwonka, a German businessman, arrived in Valdivia in 1853 and built a successful milling operation in Santiago over the following decades. The family commissioned this residence in 1918 to reflect their commercial success and growing status in the city.
The name comes from the Piwonka family, a prominent lineage in Santiago's business world who made their mark in milling and commerce. The rooms reflect how upper-class families lived and entertained during the early 20th century.
The building stands at Manuel Rodriguez Sur Avenue 415 and now houses the central administration of Universidad Diego Portales, which acquired it in 1995. Visitors should check in advance if tours are possible since the space functions primarily as office headquarters.
The main entrance leads into an octagonal hall illuminated by a modernist skylight that preserves original architectural elements from the construction year. This eight-sided space demonstrates how classical and contemporary design influences merged in 1918.
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