The absent State: the Paradoxical Configuration of the Great Valparaíso as a Sea Resort (1850-1925)

Abstract

Since the second half of the 19th century, the States marked preference for the industrialization of the coast of Valparaíso caused the dislodging of the first sea resorts in the bay. At the same time, private investors had settled their sea resorts in the recently created village of Viña del Mar. However, their investment was not able to modify Viñas paradoxical condition of an inland-facing village until the early 20th century. This contradictory condition is explained by the lack of State interest in the promotion of hedonistic uses of Chiles central coast. Only the combined action of both public and private intervention permitted a progressive re-orientation of Viña del Mar towards the coast. This was decisive in establishing its future configuration as a city centered on tourism around sea resorts.