On the 7th of June Arica celebrated her Chilean birthday - and for a 132 year old she can still party!!
In honor of the occasion, El Morro - the point of victory in the 1880 battle in which Chile finally claimed the port city from Peruvian control, donned her best party dress - the largest flag in all of chile.
During the week long celebrations young and old flocked to the downtown that was bursting at the seems with markets and fairground, musicans and comedian buskers, concerts of tradtional music and dancing, Creating a jovial and festive atmosphere which reflected traditional and diversity all the same time! At the stroke of midnight on the 7th of June the celebrations came to a climax as hundreds of locals gathered in the town square at the foot of El Morro to watch the elaborate fireworks display.
The victory at El Morro was a significant moment in the history of Chile as it consequently secured the entire northern regions of Tarapaca and Arica from Peruavian rule. The city still pays tribute to Fransico Bolengesi, the valiant Peruvian Commander who died in the final battle, by naming her prettiest cobble stone pedestrian street after her.
The enthusiastic and communal celebration of "Arica's birthday" demonstrates a strength of cultural and national identity and is an active expression of solidaridad - solidarity which is a value and characteristic that the Chileans are duly proud of.
Viva Arica!! Viva Chile!!
More about the Battle of Arica .
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