Guide to Santiago Free guide Not for sale www.chile.travel www.chileestuyo.cl Servicio Nacional de Turismo Av. Providencia 1550, Santiago de Chile ✉ www.sernatur.cl/contacto-general ☎ (56 -2) 731 8336 (56 -2) 731 8337 «The best tourism destination to visit in 2011 ». New York Times. «Santiago, Chile is reinventing itself through museums, tea houses, art galleries and thousands of entertainment opportunities». Ocholeguas Supplement in El Mundo. «Santiago is moving with contagious energy and growing confidence». Lonely Planet. «The Latin American city of the future». Financial Times. «The second best city in Latin America for doing business in 2010». América Economía. National Tourism Service | Chile
Transcript
s o l a p aGuide to Santiago
Free guideNot for sale
www.chile.travelwww.chileestuyo.cl
Servicio Nacional de TurismoAv. Providencia 1550, Santiago de Chile
✉www.sernatur.cl/contacto-general
☎ (56 -2) 731 8336 (56 -2) 731 8337
«The best tourism destination to visit in 2011 ».New York Times.
«Santiago, Chile is reinventing itself through museums, tea houses, art galleries and thousands of entertainment opportunities».Ocholeguas Supplement in El Mundo.
«Santiago is moving with contagious energy and growing confidence».Lonely Planet.
«The Latin American city of the future».Financial Times.
«The second best city in Latin America for doing business in 2010».América Economía.
National Tourism Service | Chile
s a N T I a G o l o C a T I o N
Climate: High-altitude Mediterranean, temperate. In summer, temperatures range between 15º and 34ºC, and in winter, between 0º and 18ºC. Precipitation is concentrated during the winter months, between May and September, with an annual average of 380 mm.
Safety: Within South America, Santiago is one of the safest capital cities. However, it’s always recommendable to avoid having overtly valuable items on show and to be aware of your pockets and purses.
Banks: Banks are open from 9am to 2pm. To exchange money, it’s best to visit an official money exchange location, known as “Casas de Cambio,” which are generally open between 9am and 6pm.
Taxes: Tourists are exempt from paying the 19% value-added (IVA) tax when paying for hotel lodging in dollars.
Transportation: The public transportation system in Santiago requires the purchase of an electronic “Bip!” card, which works on public buses and in the subway “Metro”. Cards can be bought and recharged at ticket booths in the Metro and at other authorized locations.
Taxis: To avoid excess charges tourists should use Radio Taxis. To check the approximate cost of your taxi trip, you can visit www.taximetro.cl. Only take authorized taxis from the airport.
U s E F U l I N F o R M a T I o N
Emergency numbers
ambulance 131
police 133
Firefighters 132
search and Rescue 136
poison control (56 2) 635 6800
How to make calls in Chile
Calling abroad from Chile
carrier + country code + area code + telephone number
Provincia de Talagante41. Padre Hurtado42. Peña�or43. El Monte44. Talagante45. Isla de Maipo
Provincia de Maipo46. Calera de Tango47. San Bernardo48. Buin49. Paine
Provincia Cordillera50. Puente Alto51. Pirque52. San José de Maipo
19. Conchalí20. Recoleta21. Providencia 22. Ñuñoa23. Macul25. La Pintana 24. Cerro Navia25. Quinta Normal26. Independencia27. Santiago28. Pedro Aguirre Cerda29. San Miguel 30. San Joaquín31. Lo Espejo 32. La Cisterna33. San Ramón34. La Granja 35. El Bosque36. La Pintana37. Lo Prado38. Estación Central39. Maipú40. Cerrillos
Provincia de Chacabuco 1. Til Til2. Colina 3. Lampa
Provincia de Melipilla4. Curacaví5. María Pinto6. Melipilla7. San Pedro8. Alhué
Provincia de Santiago9. Lo Barnechea10. Quilicura11. Huechuraba12. Vitacura13. Las Condes 14. La Reina15. Peñalolén16. La Florida17. Pudahuel18. Renca
Religious Monument Historic Monument Traditional Zone
I N T R O D U C T I O N
Santiago has, without a doubt, confirmed its image as a modern city in the eyes of the world, known for its great business opportunities and as an increasingly attractive tourist destination.
Santiago’s growing gastronomic, cultural, nightlife and lodging offerings are all located just a few miles from beaches, snow and wine routes.
Look for tourism services certified with this seal.
H I S T O R I C D O W N T O W N
The capital city’s downtown area reflects Chile’s history, and is home to a great portion of the city’s historic, architectural and cultural heritage. Museums, historic buildings, churches, plazas, parks, handicraft fairs and picturesque restaurants serving typical food, all mix together with the chaotic daily life of the capital, allowing tourists to discover not only Chile’s history but also its identity through its people.
Plaza de Armas. Considered the historic center of the capital, the square was created when the city was founded on February 12, 1541. It is surrounded by some of the Santiago’s oldest buildings, such as the Catedral Metropolitano (1745), the Municipality of Santiago (1790) and the Correo Central (1882). The Museo Histórico Nacional and the Museo Chileno de Arte Precolombino are also located here.
Museo Histórico Nacional. The National History Museum’s building was initially the headquarters of the Royal Court, and was later converted into the heart of the era’s political debates as home to the First National Congress in 1811. Currently the museum displays an important historical collection dating from the Spanish colonization to present day. Plaza de Armas 951, ☎ (56-2) 411 7010www.dibam.cl/historico_nacional/Tuesday through Sunday, from 10 am to 5.30 pm
Correo Central. The mansion housing the Central Post Office was used by the governors and presidents of Chile until 1846, when the presidential residence was moved to the Palacio de La Moneda. Currently, apart from the principal offices of the company Correos Chile and the central post office, it’s home to the Postal and Telegraph Museum. Plaza de Armas 989, ☎ (56-2) 697 1701www.correos.cl
☎ Postal Museum: (56-2) 956 51 45
La Catedral. The current cathedral (1745) is built in the exact spot that the conquistador Pedro de Valdivia established the Iglesia Mayor in 1541. Bandera 499, western edge of Plaza de Armas
☎ (562) 696 2777www.iglesiadesantiago.clOpen from 10am to 7.30pm
Iglesia Santo Domingo. The church built by Joaquín Toesca in 1795 contains the Sanctuary of our Our Lady of the Rosary (Virgin of Pompeii). Santo Domingo 961 at the corner of 21 de Mayo,
☎ (562) 6985933www.dominicos.cl
Casa Colorada Built in 1770 for Mateo de Toro y Zambrano, president of the First Government Junta. Today it serves as a museum with permanent exhibitions on the history of the city of Santiago and the Mapocho Valley, from pre-Hispanic times through the 20th century. Merced 860, ☎ (56-2) 633 0723www.municipalidaddesantiago.clOpen Tuesday to Friday from 10am to 6pm.Saturdays from 10am to 5pm. Sundays from 11am to 2pm.
Iglesia de la Merced. Santiago’s affluent families used to purchase shrines in order to one day be buried inside this temple, which was built with arches of lime and brick. To the side of the church is the Museo de la Merced, a museum displaying where religious pieces. Mac-Iver 341, at the corner of Merced, ☎ (56-2) 6330691.Tuesday to Saturday from 10am to 6pm
Museo Chileno de Arte Precolombino.The building was the Royal Customs House, built in the year 1807. The Chilean museum of pre-Colombian art currently exhibits a valuable collection from the beginnings of ceramic art and textiles in America through the arrival of European conquistadors.Bandera 361, at the corner of Compañía, ☎ (56-2) 928 1500www.precolombino.clClosed until September 2013.
Edificio Ex Congreso Nacional. This historic building constructed in the neoclassic style housed both chambers of the National Congress from 1876 to 1973. Currently it contains an important library, while the building’s Hall of Honor is used for important occasions. Catedral 1183, www.congreso.clTo visit please call (56-2) 5196700
Above Facade of the Palacio de la Moneda | Below View of the main hall in the
Palacio de La Moneda Cultural Center, on an underground level located below the
palace itself.
H I S T O R I C D O W N T O W N
Below View of the Plaza de Armas, with the Catedral de Santiago on the left and in
the back right, the Correo Municipal.
Palacio de los Tribunales de Justicia. Brings together the Supreme Court of Justice, the Santiago Court of Appeals, the Martial Court of the Army, the Air Force and Police, as well as the Library of the Supreme Court. The palace of justice is built in the neoclassic style, inspired by Greco-Roman architecture with French influences. Plaza Montt – Varas, calle Compañía
Palacio de la Moneda. The palace first opened its doors in 1805 as a mint where coins were produced. Since 1845, it has been the headquarters of the Government and the President of the Republic. Built in neoclassical Italian style, the palace has two interior courtyards: one marked by historic cannons, and the other by orange trees. Pedestrians are able to walk through the interior courtyards of the government palace. ☎ (56 2) 690 4000
Centro Cultural Palacio de la Moneda. This large modern cultural center is located below the Plaza de la Ciudadanía, between the Alameda Bernardo O’Higgins thoroughfare and the southern face of the Palacio de la Moneda. Greenery, water and light insulate the cultural center from outdoor temperatures, creating a special climate that allows visitors to escape the hustle and bustle of the city above. Av. Libertador Bernardo O’Higgins, in front of Palacio de la Moneda, ☎ (56-2) 355 6502www.ccplm.clMonday to Sunday from 9 am to 9 pm
Plaza de la Constitución y Barrio Cívico. Facing Moneda street is the Plaza de la Constitución, dating back to 1937. Around the plaza are sculptures of former presidents. The surrounding area is known as the Barrio Cívico, a “civic neighborhood” that features the Central Bank of Chile, the Ministry of Justice, the Regional Government of Santiago (Intendencia de Santiago), the Finance Ministry and the Ministry of Foreign Relations. A changing of the guard takes place every other day in front of the Palacio de la Moneda.
Iglesia San Agustín. One of Chile’s oldest churches, Iglesia San Agustín houses the Cristo de Mayo, also known as Señor de la Agonía. It’s said that on May 13, 1647, the largest earthquake in Chilean colonial history was unleashed, totally destroying Santiago, yet this life-size crucifix was preserved
practically untouched, except for the crown of spines that fell to the neck -- the event is considered by many a miracle. Ever since then, every May 13 at nightfall a procession is held. Legend has it that every time someone has tried to lift the crown, the earth trembles. Intersection of Estado with Agustinas
Teatro Municipal. S The municipal theater’s architecture is derived from the grand European opera theaters of the 19th century, with elements of French neoclassical style. The theater serves as Chile’s primary stage for opera, ballet, symphonic and chamber concerts, theatrical acts and shows from all over the world. Agustinas 794, ☎ (56-2) 800 471 000www.municipal.clGuided visits available on Thursday and Friday at 11.30am
Biblioteca Nacional. Encased within beautiful architecture and design, the national library contains one of the largest collections in Latin America, bringing together books, manuscripts, magazines, periodicals and documents in various media. Av. Libertador Bernardo O’Higgins 651, ☎ (56-2) 360 5232www.dibam.cl/biblioteca_nacionalMonday to Friday from 9am to 7pmSaturday from 9.10am to 2pm
Universidad de Chile. Construction on this neoclassical French-style building began in 1842 and was finished in 1872. A bust of Andrés Bello, who founded the public university as the nation’s first secular institution of higher learning, is located in front of the primary entrance to the university. Av. Libertador Bernardo 1058, ☎ (56-2) 9782000www.uchile.cl
Iglesia y Museo de San Francisco: Dating back to 1618, this is the oldest church in Santiago. It houses a museum dedicated to the Franciscan order, which holds Chile’s most valuable collection of colonial art and the best conserved collection in South America. The church also has the image of the Virgen del Socorro, which Spanish conqueror Pedro de Valdivia carried with him to Chile.Alameda 834, ☎ (56-2) 6398737Open from 9:30 am to 1.30 pm and 3pm to 6pm
Barrio Paris-Londres. The Paris-London neighborhood first grew out of the patios and gardens of the San Francisco church. The area is characterized by its narrow, winding, European-style cobblestone streets.
Cerro Santa Lucía. From the hilltop of Santa Lucía, or Huelén as it’s known by Chile’s indigenous groups, Pedro de Valdivia first founded the city of Santiago in 1541. For the city’s centennial anniversary, it was converted into an attractive destination in the French style, with gardens, small plazas and terraces, and excellent views of the city. The Centro Artesanal Indígena Cerro Santa Lucía is also located on the hill, offering a wide array of handicraft products from indigenous groups across Chile. Terraza Neptuno, ☎ (56-2) 386 7185 - (56-2) 386 7186 - (56-2) 386 7187E-mail: [email protected] to Friday from 9 pm to 6 pmSaturday and Sunday from 10am to 4 pm
B A R R I O L A S T A R R I A A N D B E L L A S A R T E S
Located on the eastern side of Cerro Santa Lucía, the Lastarria and Bellas Artes neighborhood is a cultural oasis of theaters, cultural centers, movie theaters, book stores, art galleries, design shops, antiques and a variety of culinary options.
Parque Forestal. At the beginning of the 20th century, Chile began to follow the European trend of turning vacant urban spaces into parks, and turned the lands that line the Río Mapocho into this attractive park. Around the park, the Bellas Artes and Lastarria neighborhood was formed, quickly becoming the epicenter of artistic expression in the country. Parque Forestal is located between Plaza Italia and Estación Mapocho.
Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes.The fine art museum’s neoclassical and Art Nouveau building was inaugurated in 1910 when Chile celebrated the centennial of its independence. With more than 3,000 pieces of artwork, it is today one of the primary locations for visual arts both in Chile and in other countries in the region.
☎ (56 2) 499 1600 www.dibam.cl/bellas_artes/index.aspTuesday to Sunday from 10am to 7pm
Museo de Arte Contemporáneo. The modern art museum contains a 2,000 piece collection of Chilean art. The temporary exhibitions it hosts have given it a reputation for being Chile’s leading venue for modern Chilean and international art, as well as a platform to launch young Chilean artists.Parque Forestal, opposite Calle Mosqueto.Parque Quinta Normal site , ☎ 977 1741www.mac.uchile.clTuesday to Saturday from 11am to 7pm and Sunday from 11am to 6pm
Plaza Mulato Gil. This little square is surrounded by historic houses which now hold the Museo Archeológico de Santiago and the Museo de Artes Visuales.José Victorino Lastarria 307, ☎ (56-2) 638 3502www.mavi.clTuesday to Sunday from 10.30am to 6.30 pm
Centro Cultural Gabriela Mistral. Rebuilt and inaugurated as a cultural center in September 2010. The center has 22,000 m2 of theater, dance, music and exhibition space.Alameda Bernardo O’Higgins 227, ☎ (56-2) 566 5500www.gam.clTuesday to Friday from 10am to 8pmSaturday and Sunday from 11am to 8pm
Centro Cultural Estación Mapocho. The Mapocho station, once the most important train station in the country, was converted into a cultural center in 1991, to promote arts, science and technology. It also hosts fairs, seminars and conferences. Plaza de la Cultura s/n, ☎ (56 2) 787 0000www.estacionmapocho.cl
Mercado Central. The fantastic architecture of Santiago’s central marketplace was forged entirely of iron rods and dates to 1872. Here, you can buy the city’s choicest fruits and vegetables, along with fresh fish, shellfish, handicrafts and a wide variety of local gastronomy packed into the central dining area, serving traditional plates like caldillo de congrio (Conger eel chowder) and paila marina (tasty seafood stew). San Pablo 967, ☎ (56-2) 696 8327www.mercadocentral.cl
B A R R I O B E L L A V I S T A
Bellavista is the capital’s poster child for the artistic bohemian life with art, good food and entertainment. Boutique stores, art galleries, fine crafts, cafés and top class restaurants are all on offer.
Casa Museo La Chascona. Nobel Prize winning poet Pablo Neruda had several houses that he used as a source of inspiration: Isla Negra, La Sebastiana (Valparaíso) and La Chascona, which have all today been converted into museums displaying the poet’s beloved collector’s items. La Chascona is tucked into the skirts of Cerro San Cristóbal hill and contains an important collection of books, paintings and curios that he gathered throughout his life.Fernando Márquez de la Plata 0192, ☎ (56-2) 777 8741www.fundacionneruda.orgMarch to December: Tueday to Sunday from 10 am to 6 pmJanuary and February: Tueday to Sunday from 10 am to 7 pmClosed on Mondays
N O T A S
Above Facade of the Museo Bellas Artes. | Center and bottom Front and interior of Mercado Central.
B A R R I O L A S T A R R I A A N D B E L L A S A R T E S
Top and bottom One of the entrances of the GAM, the Centro Cultural Gabriela Mistral.
Phot
os c
ourt
esy
of G
AM
B A R R I O R E P Ú B L I C A
One of the most characteristic and architecturally rich neighborhoods of Santiago, República has been declared a Traditional Zone. Together with Barrio Ejército, it forms part of the urban project known as the “Barrio Universitario o Ciudad Universitaria de Santiago.”
Confitería Torres. From the day it opened in 1879, the oldest restaurant in Chile has been a meeting spot for the intellectuals and politicians of the ages, such as Ramón Barros
Luco, Arturo Alessandri Palma, Federico Errázuriz and others. The famous Presidente Barros Luco Sandwich was created here, as was the traditional drink Cola de Mono (“monkey tail”).Alameda 1570, ☎(56-2) 688 0751www.confiteriatorres.cl
Museo de la Solidaridad Salvador Allende. Works by Matta, Guayasamín, Miró and many others contribute to the character of this unique collection. Artists from all over the world donated work in support of the principle of solidarity. The collection is invaluable artistically as well as for its cultural value.República 475, ☎ (56-2) 689 8761www.museodelasolidaridad.cl
Palacio Cousiño (NM).The palace was home to the Cousiño Goyenechea family from 1878 to 1941, when it was bought by the Municipality of Santiago to host important visits and events. The Cousiño Goyenecheas were a wealthy family and owned the Lota and Coronel coal mines, the Chañarcillo silver mine and the Cousiño Macul winery, which still belongs to the family. The palace was the first property in South America to own an electric generator, bought from Thomas Edison, a friend of the family.
The building was closed after being seriously damaged in the February 2010 earthquake, but there are guided visits to the gardens.Dieciocho 438, ☎ (56-2) 687 9324www.palaciocousino.co.clMonday to Friday from 9:30 am to 12:30 pm and from 2:30 pm to 4 pm.
Parque O’Higgins. In 1873, the park was inaugurated as Parque Cousiño, named after the distinguished family. It was renamed Parque O’Higgins in 1974 and quickly became a green oasis for the city and a popular recreation spot for families and athletes. It is the site of the annual September 19 Military Parade, where the army marches together to commemorate the “Día de las Glorias del Ejército de Chile.”
Museo Histórico y Militar de Chile (NM). The Chilean historical and military museum is the Army’s main cultural organization, where visitors can learn about Chile’s military history and heritage. Previously the building housed the Escuela Militar, from 1905, and the Escuela de Suboficiales, from 1965.Blanco Encalada 1550, opposite Parque O’Higgins
☎ (56-2) 694 9900www.mhm.clTuesday to Sunday from 9.30am to 5pm.
Club Hípico. Santiago’s first horse racing track opened its doors in 1869. The current building, designed by architect Josué Smith Solar, was inaugurated in 1923, and features a grandstand inspired by the Longchamp racetrack in France.Blanco Encalada 2540, ☎ (56-2) 693 9600www.clubhipico.cl
B A R R I O Y U N G A Y / B A R R I O B R A S I L / C O N C H A Y T O R O
These bordering neighborhoods used to be home to some of the 19th century’s wealthiest communities. Neo-gothic residences and palaces sit alongside neo-classical and traditional Chilean-style homes. Beginning in 1940 the area began to decline, and wealthy residents migrated to the eastern side of Santiago. Today these neighborhoods are gaining strength once again as artistic and bohemian districts.
Barrio Concha y Toro. In 1926, this neighborhood was declared a Traditional Sector for its neoclassical, gothic, art deco and beaux arts façades, designed by some of the great architects of the era. Its cobbled streets and grand old mansions reflect the elegance and richness of the early 20th century.
Barrio Brasil. Located close to the Barrio Cívico, in the center of the city, Barrio Brasil is known for its architecture and its wide variety of people, pubs, cafés and restaurants.
La Plaza Yungay. The Yungay plaza sits between Calles Sotomayor, Rosas, Santo Domingo and Libertad. The neighborhood is a hot spot of cultural centers, universities, theaters, political centers, libraries and museums. The famous “Roto Chileno” statue, a homage to the country folk of Chile, is located in the square.
B A R R I O Q U I N T A N O R M A L
Quinta Normal park is one of the most popular green spaces in the capital, covering approximately 40 hectares. The many museums, libraries and theaters that border the park have made it one of the city’s flourishing cultural neighborhoods.
Quinta Normal. In colonial times, the word “quinta” was used to refer to the estates that had to pay one fifth - a quinta - of their profits in taxes. The term “normal” came from the prestigious École Normale Supérieure in Paris, as the park was used as a site for scientific agricultural studies. As well as its green spaces, lake and wide walkways, the Quinta Normal park contains five museums, a cultural center and a campus of the Universidad de Chile.
Museo Nacional de Historia Natural. This is one of the oldest natural history museums in the Americas, with exhibitions on Chile’s geography, paleontology, archeology, insects, vertebrates and other natural phenomena. The building was closed after being seriously damaged in the February 2010 earthquake and is due to reopen in 2012, but exhibitions are also being held outside the museum building.Quinta Normal Metro Station, ☎ (56 2) 680 4624www.mnhn.cl or email [email protected]
Museo Ferroviario. . Located inside the park, the railroad museum contains a collection of 15 antique trains and cars, telling the story of the locomotive from the end of the 19th century to the middle of the 20th century.
Museo de Ciencia y Tecnología. The science and technology museum is also located within the park, with interactive exhibits on geology, optics, electricity, technology and more.
Museo de Arte Contemporáneo. In contrast to the Parque Forestal site, this branch of the Modern Art Museum displays more experimental work by both national and international artists, along with works of architecture.www.mac.uchile.cl
☎ (56-2) 977 1741.Tuesday to Saturday from 11am to 7pmSunday and holidays from 11am to 6pm
Museo Artequín. This museum aims to help visitors increase their appreciation of art and creativity, especially for school children and students.Av. Portales 3530, ☎ (56 2) 681 86 56 - 682 53 67 - 681 85 69 www.artequin.clTuesday to Friday from 9am to 5pm Saturday, Sunday and holidays from 11am to 6pmClosed on Mondays.
Biblioteca de Santiago. This free public library offers book loans, workshops, exhibitions and rooms specializing in certain periods or themes. The children’s room is a highlight.Matucana 151, ☎ (56-2) 800 220 600 - (56-2) 328 2000.www.bibliotecasantiago.cl
Museo de la Memoria y los Derechos Humanos. The impressive building that houses the Museum of Memory and Human Rights honors the victims of human rights abuses that took place in Chile between 1973 and 1990.Matucana 501, ☎ (56-2) 597 9600www.museodelamemoria.clTuesday to Sunday from 10am to 6pm
Corporación Cultural Matucana Cien. An important cultural center that hosts theater and dance performances, concerts and art exhibits.Matucana 100, ☎ (56-2) 682 4502www.m100.cl
B A R R I O L A C H I M B A
La Chimba (“on the other side of the river” in Quechua) was the name given to the northern sector of colonial Santiago. The city borders had not yet expanded north of the Mapocho river, and indigenous people who worked as servants in Santiago began to settle there. As time went by, the peacefulness of the northern fields attracted artisans, convents and monasteries. Nowadays the area is home to boroughs like Independencia and Recoleta.
Iglesia y Convento de la Recoleta Franciscana. This church and former convent dates to the beginning of the 17th century. It is popular among devotees of the Franciscan monk “Brother Andresito,” who died in Recoleta in 1853 and is believed to have performed miracles.
Iglesia de la Recoleta Domínica.The Catholic order
of the Dominicans arrived in La Chimba in the early 17th century and built this monumental church, inspired by St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome, in 1882. Alongside the church is a decorative arts museum, a museum of Dominican history and a heritage library. Av. Recoleta 683, ☎ (56-2) 737 5813
Cementerio General. The General Cemetery was founded
by Bernardo O’Higgins in 1821. It possesses a wealth of architecture and culture, with huge mausoleums, sculptures, stained-glass windows and gardens. The cemetery is the final resting place for some of Chile’s greatest historical figures: leaders, artists, writers and the professional elite.Alberto Zañartu 951 and Avda La Paz , ☎ (56-2) 737 9469 www.cementeriogeneral.cl
Vega Central. Founded in 1895, the central market is one of the icons of Santiago, with countless types of fruits, vegetables, meats and household items on sale. The marketplace contains 1,200 stalls.Between Dávila and Antonia López de Bello ,
☎ (56 2) 7373051www.lavega.cl
B A R R I O E S T A C I Ó N C E N T R A L
This district, formerly known as Chuchunco (“abundance of water”), borders downtown Santiago and was given its current name in honor of the Estación Central de Ferrocarriles, or “central rail station.”
Planetario. Part of the Universidad de Santiago de Chile, promoting astronomy is the planetarium’s main objective. It offers a sophisticated planetarium dome with star simulation equipment, allowing visitors to observe both the northern and southern skies.Av. Libertador Bernardo O´Higgins 3349, ☎ (56-2) 718 2910 - (56-2) 718 2908 - (56-2) 718 2911 - (56-2) 718 2914www.planetariochile.cl
El Hoyo. One of the capital’s most classic picadas - popular snack joints - celebrates its centenary in 2012. Traditional Chilean cuisine is served alongside the famous terremoto beverage, fashioned from semi-fermented wine and pineapple ice cream. Television chef Anthony Bourdain named El Hoyo as his favorite place when he visited Chile.San Vicente 375 (Esquina Gorbea), ☎ (56-2) 689 0339www.elhoyo.cl
Santuario del Padre Hurtado. Saint Alberto Hurtado was a Jesuit priest who carried out important work with the poorest members of society, founding the Hogar de Cristo charity. He was canonized in 2005 and thousands of pilgrims visit the sanctuary every year to pay their respects.Av. Padre Alberto Hurtado 1090, ☎ (56-2) 779 3781
B A R R I O H U E M U L
The Huemul neighborhood is located a few blocks from the Persa Bío-Bío flea market, stretching along Nataniel Cox street as far as Placer street.Architect Ricardo Larraín created the project with the aim of constructing a model neighborhood for workers, storekeepers and public employees. Containing schools, a theater, a parish and a library, it was the first satellite city in Chile. Construction on the “model village” began in 1910 as part of the country’s centenary celebrations, in a neighborhood previously populated with poorly-constructed adobe buildings, small farms and settlements. The government imported high quality materials and cement blocks from England to replace the adobe structures. With civic priorities in mind, Barrio Huemul was built around a central square surrounded by important public buildings such as the first branch of the Caja de Ahorros (savings bank), the Huemul Theater, two primary schools and the Municipal Library, located in a colonial farmhouse. The neighborhood soon became a symbol of a new kind of social accommodation outside the city center.
B A R R I O P R O V I D E N C I A
With its many parks and green spaces, some say Providencia is the beautiful communal gardens of the city. It also boasts its share of tourist sights, such as the Iglesia de la Divina Providencia; the Palacio Falabella, now home to the Providencia Municipality (Pedro de Valdivia 963); the Palacio Schacht, home to the Instituto Cultural de Providencia (11 de Septiembre 1995); the Museo Vicuña Mackenna (Vicuña Mackenna 94); and La Casa de las Gárgolas, home to the Consejo de Monumentos (Vicuña Mackenna 84). Providencia is also an important business district with a large range of hotels, theaters and two of the city’s top gastronomical hotspots, Manuel Montt and Barrio Italia.
Parque Metropolitano.This is the largest urban park in Chile and one of the biggest in the world, with the famous Cerro San Cristóbal hill lying within its 722 hectares. The hill offers a network of hiking trails and viewpoints, with fantastic panoramas of the city and the impressive statue of the Immaculate Conception at its peak. You can ascend the hill by foot, bike, car or funicular, a historic cable car with
two stops: the National Zoo and the Bellavista terrace at the summit.☎ (56 2) 730 1300www.parquemet.cl
Parque de las esculturas. The sculpture park lies on the northern bank of the Mapocho river, between the Pedro de Valdivia and Padre Letelier bridges. Visitors can take in works by some of Chile’s greatest sculptors.Av. Santa María 2205, ☎ (56-2) 335 1832www.proviarte.cl
Barrio Italia. A charming neighborhood on the border of
the Providencia and Ñuñoa districts, Barrio Italia is known for its famous antique shops jostling for space with design boutiques, art galleries and a wide variety of bars and restaurants.
B A R R I O E L G O L F
Santiago’s uptown financial district - also known as “Sanhattan” - can hold its own on the global stage. The El Bosque Norte and Isidora Goyenechea avenues offer exclusive restaurants and international brands as well as wine boutiques, cafés and a wide variety of services. On Sundays, don’t miss the antiques fair at Plaza Perú.
B A R R I O V I T A C U R A
Vitacura is home to some of Santiago’s most exclusive touristic and commercial neighborhoods, such as the glitzy Alonso de Córdova and Nueva Costanera, as well as important international organizations such as the ECLAC, FAO and the European Southern Observatory (ESO). Alonso de Córdova. Santiago’s equivalent to New York’s Fifth
Avenue or Avenida Alvear in Buenos Aires. The six blocks contain designer stores, boutiques, restaurants, art galleries, shoe stores, jewelry stores and more, with an emphasis on luxury and the avant-garde. Located between Av. Américo Vespucio and Av. Bicentenario.
Museo de la Moda. The international press have described the Museo de la Moda as a world-class fashion museum, with its 10,000 pieces that include a jacket owned by John Lennon, a strapless dress from Princess Diana, Madonna outfits by Jean Paul Gaultier and clothing from the Terminator film. The museum also hosts regular special exhibitions, which have included shows on Michael Jackson, tennis wear and the 1980s.Av. Vitacura 4562, ☎ (56-2) 219 3623www.museodelamoda.clWednesday to Sunday from 10am to 6pm
Museo Ralli. This non-profit museum, run by the Ralli Foundation, aims to promote knowledge of living Latin American artists.Alonso de Sotomayor 4110, ☎ (56-2) 206 4224www.museoralli.cl
B A R R I O S L A S C O N D E S , M A N Q U E H U E Y L A D E H E S A
These urban districts are primarily residential, with large green spaces like Parque Araucano and Parque Padre Hurtado. They are also home to important shopping centers like Parque Arauco, Apumanque, Alto Las Condes and the well-known Pueblito de los Domínicos.
Pueblito Los Domínicos. In their cozy and traditional adobe workshops, some of the country’s leading artisans produce and display top quality Chilean crafts. You can find materials such as leather, wood, wicker, ceramics, glass and semi-precious stones, worked into beautiful pieces by the skilled hands of the craftspeople. Av. Apoquindo 9085, next to Parroquia Vicente Ferrer.www.pueblitolosdominicos.comMonday to Sunday from10 am to 8 pm
Observatorio Astronómico Nacional (OAN). Run by the Astronomy Department of the Universidad de Chile, the National Astronomical Observatory offers nighttime programs for the general public to learn about astronomy.Camino el Observatorio 1515, Las Condes, ☎ (56 2) 977 1090www.oan.cl
Wednesdays, by prior reservation only (56-2) 977 1090
Observatorio Astronómico Andino. This tourism-focused observatory is located at Km. 8 on the road to Farellones.www.oaa.clGuided tours are offered.
B A R R I O Ñ U Ñ O A
The wide avenues and walkways, flowering trees and grand old houses of this Santiago district give it a unique character. With plentiful green spaces, cultural centers and sports areas, Ñuñoa is known for its excellent quality of life.
Plaza Ñuñoa. The district’s bohemian heart, this central square is surrounded by a great selection of bars and restaurants. Some of the plaza’s classic hangouts include Las Lanzas, La Fuente Suiza, La Tecla, El Dante and La Taverna Della Piazza, as well as the Teatro de la Universidad Católica and La Batuta, where you can often catch up-and-coming Chilean bands.
Estadio Nacional(NM) The country’s leading sports arena and the home stadium for Chile’s national soccer team. It hosted many of the matches in the 1962 World Cup, including the final, and has also seen top musical, religious and political events. During the military dictatorship, it was used as a center of torture and repression.Av. Grecia 2001, ☎ (56-2) 238 8102
B A R R I O P E Ñ A L O L É N
A district located in the southeast of the city, close to the hills that border the city. Peñalolén is a residential district, characterized by marked socio-economic differences between one neighborhood and the next.
Parque Por La Paz Villa Grimaldi. This was once the site of the Cuartel Terranova, better known as Villa Grimaldi, one of the military regime’s secret abduction, torture, and extermination centers. The Park for Peace was inaugurated in 1997 as a homage to all those who were tortured and lost their lives there. Guided tours available.Av. José Arrieta 8401, ☎ (56-2) 292 5229www.villagrimaldi.cl
Viña Cousiño Macul. One of the oldest and most emblematic wineries in Chile, with a bodega dating back to 1872. It is the only winery that is still 100 percent owned by the founding family. Visitors can see the bodega, the production process and taste some of their best wines.Quilín 7100, ☎ (56 2) 351 4135 – (56 2) 351 4166www.cousinomacul.cl
B A R R I O L A R E I N A
Next to Peñalolén is the district of La Reina, with a low population density, abundant parks and few high-rise buildings that help it maintain its residential feel.
Parque Mahuida. This 170 hectare park located in the Andean precordillera offers hiking trails, zip lines, an adventure course, an educational farm, a horse riding club and picnic zones. Av. Larraín 11095, ☎ (56-2) 273 4301www.parquemahuidalareina.cl
Parque Padre Hurtado. One of the city’s main parks, covering parts of La Reina, Las Condes and Providencia. Among its many attractions are the large picnic zones, barbecue spots, children’s playgrounds, bike paths, ponies, a rodeo ring and a lake. You can often catch cultural and folklore events taking place in the grounds.Av. Francisco Bilbao 8105www.parquesanalbertohurtado.cl
