The opening of the Panama Canal in 1914 reduced commerce to the thriving port of Valparaiso which went into a sudden decline. Along with World War I all trade was nearly eliminated with Great Britain and Germany which left Chile on its own.
 |
| Looking down the hill towards the ocean from the hills. |
 |
| Pelican on the Pacific Ocean |
 |
| The new modern part of Valparaiso on the coast |
 |
| One of the 45 steep hills each a dense jumble of winding streets lined with colorful houses. | |
 |
| Built in 1910, used for city mayors, presidential summer home, and regional governors then home off the Chile's navy since 1970's. |
 |
| Close up view of the port. |
 |
| Gift from Swizterland |
 |
| An original moai, one of the few on mainland Chile, stands outside the Museum Franciso Fonck. |
The city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and much of its rich architecture is beautifully preserved.
