The Clock Tower stands in Plaza Arturo Prat, the central square of Iquique in northern Chile. It was built in 1878, when the city was still Peruvian territory, and it is a National Historic Landmark. The clock mechanism was imported from England. The tower is made of white Oregon pine in an eclectic style that mixes Gothic and Islamic features. The square is framed by the Municipal Theatre and other historic buildings. The tower takes only a few minutes to see, so pair it with a walk around the square and the theatre facade.
From Peruvian Iquique to Chilean Iquique
Iquique was Peruvian territory when the tower was built in 1878. The city became part of Chile after the 1880 War of the Pacific, and the tower was placed in the centre of the plaza in 1884.
The tower was declared a National Historic Landmark of Chile in 1987. Its clock mechanism came from England. One local interpretation links the tower to the English settlers who founded the town, and to the weight of time they carried with them.
Architecture and the square
The tower is built of white Oregon pine. Its eclectic style mixes Gothic and Islamic features, and it is often described as a symbol of the city.
The square has no cathedral at its centre. The Municipal Theatre takes that role, and its facade is the other main sight on the square. The theatre is dated to 1890 and is linked with the development of Chilean theatre and entertainment. Banks, museums, restaurants and tour agencies are within a short walk.
Nearby sights for a half-day outing
A tour route can pair the square with the Prat Passenger Pier and the Riquelme Fishermen's Cove.
The Corbeta Esmeralda museum is a life-size replica of the original ship. Visitors can walk its deck, cannons, steam engine room and cabins, and the visit tells the story of the Naval Battle of Iquique on 21 May 1879. The museum is a short distance from the square and makes a good second stop after the tower.
FAQ
Is the Clock Tower open at all hours?
Yes. The square is open at all hours, so you can visit at any time of day or night.
How long do you need at the Clock Tower?
A quick visit covers the tower itself. Allow more time if you also walk the square, the Municipal Theatre facade and the nearby streets.
Is it safe to visit at night?
The square feels quieter after dark, and daylight is the better choice for a relaxed visit.
Can you rent a pedal car on the square?
Pedal cars and trikes are available to rent on the square. One rental was 1,000 pesos for 15 or 30 minutes, so check the current price on arrival.
