Situated on the tranquil banks of the Mapocho River, Santiago is a vibrant metropolis that shares characteristics of both the quaint traditional villages hailing from Colonial Times as well as modern buildings displaying the latest innovations of architecture. Not only is Santiago an important financial hub of Latin America, but it also contains many architectural treasures that will lure you into Santiago's tumultuous past.

Santiago's architecture is anything but diverse-while you'll find a pseudo-Parisian streetscape in barrio Santa Lucia, and can wander down the cobblestone streets of barrio Paris Londres among mock-medieval architecture, the vast majority of Santiago's style reflects a strong neoclassical European influence.

Highlights:

Iglesia San Francisco:
The Church is Santiago's greatest and best known symbol, and is a must-see for all visitors. Construction on the colonial-era church began in 1586, with a tower of neoclassical style added in 1857. The building's ornate wood coffered ceilings, marble columns, and brick and stone walls reflect the last of Santiago's 16th century colonial architecture, as most structures built during the period were destroyed in a series of earthquakes over time.

Palacio de la Moneda:
This palace was originally built as Chile's royal mint in 1805, but became a presidential palace in 1846. It remained a presidential palace until the military coup in 1973. The palace has two interior courtyards that are open to the public, and tours of the interior can be arranged.

Estacion Mapoch:
This former train station was once home to steam engines that ran to points north of Santiago. Three two-story arches boast intricate terra cotta detailing. The elegant edifice has since been transformed into a cultural center and his home to two restaurants, a café and bookshop, a shop that sells local handicrafts, as well as a large exhibition hall.

La Chascona:
Nobel-prize winning poet Pablo Neruda designed this "woman with the tousled hair" as a romantic retreat, where he spend time with his third wife. Take a tour of the home to gain insight into the mind of this quirky poet, whose designs earned him the designation of "organic architect." The house has a secret passageway, a bedroom built in a tower, and library brimming with the poet's books. Throughout the house you'll find Neruda's collections of seashells, butterflies, and other natural objects that inspired Neruda's genius.
Hours: Tues-Sun 10am-6pm
Website

The Red House:
This colonial style mansion built in 1769, which contains a museum and the Palacio de la Moneda of the neo-classical style and the seat of the Chilean government. It also contains a beautiful Cathedral that was built in 1785.

Museo Artequin:
Designed by French architect Hinri Picq, this glass structure was built for the Paris Exposition of 1889. It was taken apart and reinstalled in Santiago in the early 20th century. Laden with glass domes, red-clay walls, and columns of blue steel, it is a building of exquisite beauty, and home to an interactive children's museum.

Ex Congreso Nacional:
This neoclassical treasure was once the home to the National Congress before it moved to Valparaiso in 1990. It now house the offices of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The original structure was called the Iglesia de la Compania de Jesus, which burned down in 1863 and left 2,000 dead. There is a monument commemorating the victims inside the gated gardens.
Bandere 354, Morande District

Bolsa de Comercio:
Chile's stock exchange operates in the Bolsa de Comercio, a 1917 French neoclassical structure with a majestic clock tower atop an arched slate cupola.
La Bolsa 64
Website

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 Santiago Overview

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