Santiago – Architecture & Landmarks

The cultural center of Chile, Santiago is home to much of the country’s most important historical landmarks and its most unique architectural developments. In addition to relics from the colonial period, Santiago in particular has been experiencing an explosion of new developments that are set to further define the city’s (and Chile’s overall) identity. One of the newest forms of architectural wonder is the Bahá’í Temple. Developed by Canadian architect Siamak Hariri, the lotus-like façade is made entirely of glass. It is a non-denominational temple that is located on the foothills of the Andes mountains.

A more traditional landmark in the city is the Metropolitan Cathedral of Santiago. Located at the Plaza de Armas, it is built in a neoclassical style and was originally constructed in 1748. The location has been the site of many various temples before it, with the first believed to have been built in the 1500s. Another example of neoclassical architecture is the Cousiño Palace. Built in a specifically French neoclassical style, the palace is considered one of the most luxurious mansions in South America. It covers an area of 3,500 square feet and includes 12 rooms across two floors.  It has been the temporary home of presidents and diplomats since its construction.

Another palace of interest is that of the Falabella Palace. Built in a neo-renaissance-style building in 1924, it was declared a national monument in 1998. The mansion is spread across three floors and is adorned with many mosaics of Florentine style. Marble columns are used, and the central hall includes a stained-glass window. A plinth room exists in the house which was previously used as a games room. It served as a smoking room and included various quotes from the Koran, all in the Persian language. Today, the Flabella Palace is the headquarters of the Municipality of Providencia, in which it is located.

Landmarks of Interest

Catedral Metropolitana

Address: Pl. de Armas, Santiago, Región Metropolitana
Phone: +56 2 2787 5600
Operating Hours:
– Monday 9:00am – 8:00pm
– Tuesday 9:00am – 8:00pm
– Wednesday 9:00am – 8:00pm
– Thursday 9:00am – 8:00pm
– Friday 9:00am – 8:00pm
– Saturday 9:00am – 8:00pm
– Sunday 9:00am – 8:00pm
Admission Cost:
– FREE
Website

Cousiño Palace

Address: Dieciocho 438, Santiago, Región Metropolitana
Phone: +56 2 2386 7449
Operating Hours:
– Monday closed
– Tuesday 10:00am – 4:00pm
– Wednesday 10:00am – 4:00pm
– Thursday 10:00am – 4:00pm
– Friday 10:00am – 4:00pm
– Saturday 10:00am – 1:00pm
– Sunday closed
Admission Cost:
– Admission on guided tour only
Website (unofficial)

Palacio Falabella

Address: Pedro de Valdivia 963, Santiago
Phone: N/A
Operating Hours: N/A
Admission Cost: N/A
Website