In the early twentieth century was a boom in the production of nitrate, used as fertilizer in agriculture and for making explosives. In the first decades of the twentieth century, the development and growth of the city of Iquique happens mainly due to significant progress in the treatment of nitrate, which was then exported to various countries of Europe. Major manufacturers nitrate, together, built a house for their offices in the Georgian style in Iquique - Palace Astoreca.

The Palace Astoreca was built in 1904 by the order of a prosperous merchant don Juan Gigin Astoreca as business office. This project was brought to life by two well-known architect Alberto Cruz Montt and Miguel de Ritornano. Juan Gigin Astoreca died before he completed construction of the house, and his family moved to the city of Valparaiso. In 1909, his wife, Felicia farm, sold the Palace Astoreca the municipality of Iquique. Since then, this building housed offices until 1977. In 1994 the Palace Astoreca was declared a national historic landmark.

The building is constructed entirely of Oregon pine. The Palace area of about 1100 square meters has 27 rooms, decorated in different styles including: modern, French Renaissance, the Renaissance, etc. the Main facade of the building consists of three symmetrically located areas. The Central part has a facade with a round arch, reminiscent of the "Dutch" roof.

The building has 6 large Lounges, 2 conference rooms, guest rooms, Small and Large halls for exhibitions and events. The Palace Astoreca under the guardianship of the University. Arthur Prata. The building is an important cultural and exhibition centre. In the room there are various exhibitions, artistic and cultural activities. The Palace doors are always open for seminars, round tables, courses, conferences and presentations.

The Palace Astoreca is an architectural gem that you want to visit, to admire the grandeur of a bygone era.