Congreso Nacional

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Lonely Planet review

At the east end of downtown, opposite Plaza O'Higgins and the bus terminal, the most imposing landmark is the controversial Congreso Nacional built in 1990. Mandated by Pinochet's 1980 constitution, which moved the legislature away from the Santiago-based executive branch, this was the last major public-works project of the dictatorship, at a cost of US$100 million. The edifice was built on the site of one of Pinochet's boyhood homes.

The presence of Congress is resented by many Valparaíso residents, who would be happy if the politicians returned to Santiago - as many in power are now hinting.