Quinta Prado was built in 1922 by architect Lidio Mongilardi Forno. It is located between the 1000 block of Avenida La Paz, the 600 block of Avenida 28 de Julio, and the 800 block of Alcanfores Street.
This quinta reflects the architectural style known as the “Belle Époque of 1900”, a period characterized by peace, prosperity, and progress—especially in Paris. Known as the “beautiful age,” this style brought significant changes to daily life, and Quinta Prado captures that spirit in both its design and its T-shaped layout.
The houses facing the main avenues featured gardens and small railings separating them from the sidewalk. Some had gabled roofs, allowing for a third floor. The main entrance was on Avenida 28 de Julio, but the beauty of the complex was visible from all surrounding streets. At the entrance, sculptures of children flank each side, adding a touch of elegance to the site.
Based on the exterior characteristics, it is believed the homes were built on relatively small plots of land. However, high ceilings compensated for the limited space—similar to what would now be considered middle-class housing. Due to its architectural heritage, though, these properties have become highly sought after in recent years.
In earlier decades, vehicle traffic was not allowed on the streets parallel to Avenida 28 de Julio. These streets featured central medians filled with flowers, shrubs, and trees. In the original design, none of the houses included garages or parking spaces, suggesting that the development was intended for pedestrian living. Over time, many houses have been remodeled, both inside and out. Some have maintained their original structure, while others have lost their historic design entirely.
Many original features—such as doors, window frames, and shutters—have been replaced with more modern designs. Nevertheless, most homes have preserved the elegant and understated style of the original construction. Quinta Prado remains a secure place to live, as access is still restricted most of the time.
Along the central walkway that divides the homes, several original ornamental features dating back to the quinta’s inauguration have been preserved. Visitors can find old-style street lamps that still light the path, and the interior gardens feature curved pathways that add a harmonious touch to the overall architecture.
Unfortunately, all the residences near Avenida La Paz have been completely altered, with virtually no trace of the original buildings remaining. However, it’s still a pleasure to admire the beauty of what remains of Quinta Prado.
A notable moment in Miraflores history is the act of environmental advocacy by María Isabel Granda y Larco, known artistically as Chabuca Granda. A resident of Miraflores, in 1977 she made headlines when she hugged a cedar tree in front of her home, on the 600 block of Avenida 28 de Julio, to prevent it from being cut down by municipal workers. So moved was she by the moment that she dedicated a poem to the tree titled “Song to the Singing Tree” (Canción al árbol del canto, 6/1/1977).
As a result, the Municipality of Miraflores declared the cedar the district’s first Heritage Tree.
Quinta Prado