Equestrian statue of Pedro de Valdivia, Bronze equestrian monument in Plaza de Armas, Santiago, Chile.
The Equestrian statue of Pedro de Valdivia is a bronze figure depicting the Spanish conquistador mounted on horseback, rising in the center of Plaza de Armas. The artwork shows the commander in full military dress seated atop his horse, surrounded by buildings, walkways, and the daily activity of the main square.
Spanish sculptor Enrique Pérez Comendador created this bronze work in 1963 to honor the founder of Santiago, the conquistador Pedro de Valdivia. Valdivia had established the city in 1541, marking the beginning of Spanish settlement and control in that region.
The monument sits at the heart of Plaza de Armas and is passed by visitors, commuters, and tourists daily, making it a natural gathering point. The statue represents a contested chapter of Santiago's founding for many Chileans, yet it remains a reference in the city's rhythm.
The monument sits in the center of Plaza de Armas, Santiago's historic main square, and is easy to reach on foot from various streets. The square is open and can be visited during day and evening hours, with the surroundings full of cafes, restaurants, and shops.
The statue often goes unnoticed because visitors look toward surrounding buildings or hurry across the square. Yet the military style and the horse's posture tell a story of power and control that was central to Chile's founding.
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