As the capital of Chile, Santiago has lots to see and do. From colonial architecture to contemporary art galleries and cultural events, there’s something for everyone!
If you’re a history vulture, the Museum of National History is a must-see. It tells the story of the military coup that took place in 1973 and the human rights violations that followed.
Plaza de Armas
The Plaza de Armas is the heart of the historic district and the centre of Santiago's main commercial and social life. It's a leafy palm-fringed square surrounded by grand monuments and architectural landmarks, and it's buzzing at all times of the day or night.
When it comes to the 'heart and soul of Santiago', nothing beats this palm-fringed square - it's a perfect blend of old and new. It's a place where you can see the city's main buildings in all their glory, and a meeting point for street vendors and tourists alike.
In the Spanish colonial period, the Plaza de Armas was the heart of town-planning and the main focal point of defense for the settlement. It was built before the municipal offices, cathedral, post office or officer's quarters were constructed, and if the town was attacked it was a place of refuge.
Cementerio General de Santiago
The Plaza de Armas, or ‘square of weapons’, has remained the heart of Santiago since the founding of the city in 1541. Originally it was a market square, but today it is carpeted with beautiful gardens and trees.
It is the place where locals gather to relax and have fun. And it is a good place for tourists to visit as well.
Amid the hustle and bustle of the city’s workers, there is an eclectic mix of characters that spend the majority of their day here: soap-box speakers, shoe shiners, comedians, preachers, chess players, young couples who embrace on park benches, street photographers and artists hawking paintings.
The Cementerio General de Santiago is an interesting museum that focuses on the life of Benjamin Vicuna Mackenna, mayor of Santiago from 1872-1875. It offers visitors the chance to learn about his career as a historian, journalist and politician.
Museo de Historia Natural
If you want to learn more about the history of South America, the Chilean Museum of Pre-Columbian Art is the place for you. Located in Santiago, it houses an extensive collection of ceramics and other relics from pre-Columbian cultures.
This museum is a pioneering initiative in Latin America. Founded in 1972 by Sergio Larrain Garcia-Moreno, the institution is dedicated to the conservation and study of the artistic legacy of the pre-Columbian peoples of Central and South America.
The Museo de Historia Natural has an extensive collection of artifacts, photographs and paintings from Chilean and American cultures. It also has a library and graphic archives.
Museum of Memory and Human Rights
Located right across the street from Quinta Normal Park, the Museum of Memory and Human Rights is an excellent way to learn about Chile’s complex history. The museum focuses on the brutal years of military dictatorship under General Augusto Pinochet and is a reminder to all that humanity has not always been at its best.
The museum aims to give visibility to the violations of human rights committed by the state between 1973 and 1990; to dignify the victims and their families; and to stimulate reflection and discussion about the importance of democracy and tolerance so that these events will never happen again.
The building is a modern and contemporary interpretation of the brutal regime, and the exhibits are well worth a visit. They include documents, letters, photographs and graphic exhibitions that will leave a lasting impression on your travel experience in Santiago.
Bellavista
Bellavista, a bohemian neighborhood in Santiago, is home to colorful old houses and lively restaurants. You can also dance the night away in one of its numerous discos, or shop for semi-precious lapis lazuli at weekend crafts markets.
For a taste of the local cuisine, visit La Vega Central market where you’ll find an eclectic assortment of vegetables, fruits and spices. If you’re more of a fish fan, head to Mercado Central to sample top-grade seafood.
While in Chile, don’t miss the Museo de la Memoria y los Derechos Humanos (Museum of Memory and Human Rights). This 54,000-square-foot (5000-square-meter) facility tells the dark history surrounding the Pinochet era and the thousands of victims it left behind.
