CHILE: Streetart Angol - Bernardo O'Higgins - Plaza Bunster - Manuel Bunster Sculpture - VIRGINIO ARIAS

Tribute to Manuel Bunster

The square Plaza Bunster is named in honor of Manuel Bunster, a key figure in the economic, industrial, and social development of Angol and the entire Malleco Province during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. His contributions helped transform Angol from a military fort into a prosperous urban and agro-industrial center: consequently, the municipality and the community named this important plaza in his honor. He lived from 25th November 1911 to 14th June 1985. Also have a look at the nearby bus stop at the plaza with works by RAMS and PAULA AURORA.

The bust was created by the arist VIRGINIO ARIAS, who lived from 8th December 1855 to 17th January 1941, and who was an important Chilean sculptor. Born in Ránquil, he began his artistic training in Concepción at the age of twelve, later he studied in Paris, where he participated in major exhibitions and received several awards. Back in Chile, he directed the Escuela de Bellas Artes and influenced many generations of artists. VIRGINIO ARIAS is best known for his realistic monumental sculptures, including „El Roto Chileno“ and the „Monument to General Baquedano“ in Santiago.

Salvador J. Seda – Angol – August 2026