Iquique's neoclassical theatre, completed in 1890 at the height of the nitrate boom, is an extravagant piece of Belle Époque architecture out in the desert. The facade carries allegorical statues of the four seasons; the interior auditorium is decorated with frescoed ceilings depicting muses of music and poetry, and the original wooden seating is still in use.
It was built using profits from the saltpetre trade and meant to bring European high culture to a frontier port. Performances still take place — visiting opera, dance, and classical concerts — but if there is nothing on, the box office staff will usually let visitors peek inside during the day.