Invernadero de la Quinta Normal, Glass and iron greenhouse in Quinta Normal Park, Santiago, Chile.
The Invernadero de la Quinta Normal is a glass and iron structure defined by a central dome flanked by two matching wings. The building sits on a stone foundation and was assembled from prefabricated components designed to allow sunlight to reach plants throughout the interior.
The building was originally constructed in 1866 for Henry Meiggs' private estate before becoming a public facility. The Chilean government acquired it in 1890 and relocated the entire structure to Quinta Normal Park, where it began serving botanical collections and research.
The greenhouse was a center for plant study and a gathering place where people could learn about exotic species from different climates. It helped make botanical knowledge accessible to the public and shaped how people understood the natural world around them.
The greenhouse is located in the southeastern section of Quinta Normal Park near where Portales and Matucana avenues intersect. It sits within the central area of Santiago, making it straightforward to reach by public transportation.
The entire glass structure was transported intact from its original private location to the park, an impressive engineering feat that preserved the fragile materials. This relocation without damage to the delicate glass panels demonstrates the skill and care required during the 1890s move.
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