La Sebastiana
Valparaíso
La Sebastiana is one of the three houses owned by the Chilean poet Pablo Neruda, located on Cerro Bellavista in Valparaíso. The house stands out for its distinctive architecture and magnificent views over the port bay. Originally begun by Spanish builder Sebastián Collado Mauri, the construction was unfinished at his death and later sold to Neruda in 1959. Neruda was drawn to the house for its blend of privacy and accessibility, describing it as seeming to float in the air yet firmly grounded. The house has four floors, with Neruda adding a loft, reflecting his personal taste and creative spirit. Inside, visitors find eclectic collections including maps, mariner art, stained glass, and unique objects like a cow-shaped Italian soup tureen and a musical painting. The house was inaugurated as Neruda's residence in 1961 and became a museum in 1992 after restoration. It was declared a National Monument in 2012. La Sebastiana not only offers insight into Neruda's life and work but also a breathtaking panorama of Valparaíso's bay and hills, making it a cultural and architectural gem.
Planifica tu viaje a Chile con IA
Crea un itinerario detallado en minutos. La IA sugiere los mejores lugares, restaurantes y una ruta optimizada.
Consejo: The best time to visit La Sebastiana is during the morning or late afternoon to enjoy the natural light and panoramic views of Valparaíso's bay. It is advisable to purchase tickets in advance via the official website to avoid queues. Visitors may benefit from discounts for students and seniors. Guided tours are offered and recommended to fully appreciate the house's history and Neruda's personal touches. Comfortable footwear is suggested due to the house's multiple floors and steep stairs.
Datos interesantes
- •La Sebastiana was one of three houses owned by Pablo Neruda, alongside La Chascona in Santiago and the house at Isla Negra.
- •The house features a mural by María Martner, based on a map of Patagonia, located on the first floor staircase.
- •Neruda often celebrated New Year's Eve at La Sebastiana, creating menus with invented dish names illustrated in his trademark green ink.
- •The house's architecture includes diverse shapes, colors, and elements like ship skylights and stained glass, reflecting Neruda's eclectic style.
- •La Sebastiana offers panoramic views of Valparaíso's bay and hills, blending natural beauty with cultural heritage.
Historia
Construction of La Sebastiana began under Sebastián Collado Mauri, who intended to spend his later years there but died before its completion.
The unfinished house was sold to Pablo Neruda in 1959, who transformed it extensively, adding personal artistic elements.
Neruda inaugurated the house in 1961 and used it as a retreat, especially celebrating New Year's there until his death in 1973.
During the Pinochet dictatorship, the house was abandoned, but it was restored in 1991 and opened as a museum in 1992.
In 2012, La Sebastiana was officially declared a National Monument of Chile.
Guía del lugar
First Floor and Mural Staircase1960s
The first floor features a mural by artist María Martner, inspired by a Patagonian map owned by Neruda. The staircase adorned with this mural leads visitors through the house, symbolizing exploration and discovery.
Living Room and Collections
The living room houses Neruda's eclectic collection of objects including globes, mariner paintings, a stuffed bird from Venezuela, and a unique Italian cow-shaped soup tureen used for punch.
Loft Addition1960s
Neruda added a loft to the original four-story structure, reflecting his continuous desire to expand and personalize the space.
Panoramic Windows and Ship Skylights
Large windows and ship-style skylights throughout the house provide expansive views of the bay and the surrounding hills, integrating the natural landscape with the interior space.
Contacto
Teléfono: (32) 223 3759