Monument to Miguel Grau Seminario facts for kids

The Monument to Miguel Grau Seminario (which means Monument to Miguel Grau Seminario in Spanish) is a special statue built to remember important events. You can find it in Plaza Grau, right in the old part of Lima, Peru. This monument is so important that it's considered part of Peru's National Cultural Heritage. It honors Miguel Grau, a famous Peruvian naval hero.

History of the Monument

This impressive monument was created by a Spanish artist named Victorio Macho. It was officially opened on October 28, 1946. This happened during the time when José Luis Bustamante y Rivero was the President of Peru.

The Opening Ceremony

For the opening day, a special area was set up for important guests. These included government officials and diplomats. A special group, led by Captain Arturo Jiménez Pacheco, welcomed everyone.

Many people attended the ceremony. Members of the Armed Forces and the Civil Guard were there. Also, students from schools in Lima and Callao marched in battalions. Marshal Eloy Ureta was in charge of the military parade.

The ceremony started with a minute of silence. This was to honor Miguel Grau, who is known as the "hero of Angamos". After that, there was an exciting air exhibition in the sky.

Unveiling the Statue

After the air show, President Bustamante y Rivero walked to the monument. He was joined by the mayor of Lima and some brave veterans from the War of the Pacific.

A man named Frigate Manuel Elías Bonnemaison had a very special job. He was the last person still alive who had been part of the Huáscar ship's crew. He was the one who pulled away the cloth covering the statue.

Standing before the statue of Grau, President Bustamante gave a speech. He spoke about how Miguel Grau's actions became even more important over time. He said that Grau had limited tools but used them with great skill and bravery. The President explained that Grau's small ship grew in importance. He also said that Grau's sacrifice was not in vain. The speech ended with a powerful message:

Admiral:

Your amazing actions have grown bigger over time. From far away, we see you as a giant symbol with important lessons. You had small and weak tools; but your spirit made them strong and great. Your tiny ship has grown, Admiral. It now has a quiet power that even cannons would envy. Your sacrifice was not wasted. Your great spirit watches over our seas. There is a special place for your statue on every ship in our navy. And every sailor feels a deep emotion for you. The Peruvian Navy is proud of your memory. And our nation, gathered here at this monument, tells you with deep thanks:

Glory to you, Admiral!

—José Luis Bustamante y Rivero, October 28, 1946

About the Monument

The monument features a large sculpture of Admiral Miguel Grau Seminario. He was a brave sailor who died during the battle of Angamos. In Peru, he is seen as the greatest war hero from the War of the Pacific. This war was fought between Bolivia, Chile, and Peru from 1879 to 1884.

Design and Symbolism

The main part of the monument is a tall, four-sided stone pillar made of granite. It has vertical lines and rising steps. The artist said these parts represent the land of Peru. The steps at the bottom of the monument symbolize the sea.

On the main front side, there is a tall sculpture of Miguel Grau. He is shown in his sailor uniform with his arms crossed. He stands between a ship's helm (steering wheel) and its anchors. Below his statue, on the base, there is a dedication that reads: "To the glory of the great admiral of Peru Miguel Grau, the Millennium Peruvian."

On the sides of the monument, there are other symbolic sculptures. These show men who are struggling to reach great heights. On the back of the monument, there is a special plaque that remembers the battle of Angamos.

Finally, at the very top of the monument, there is a sculpture representing "fame." This figure raises its arms to the sky, calling for immortality. It is shown riding in a mythical ship, guided by sea creatures called tritons and sirens.

Location Details

The square where the monument stands is located between three important roads: the Paseo de la República, Miguel Grau Avenue [es], and Paseo Colón. From this spot, the Paseo de los Héroes Navales (Walk of the Naval Heroes) begins.

See also

In Spanish: Monumento a Miguel Grau Seminario para niños

• Plaza Grau
• Paseo de los Héroes Navales