Chile is one of the most stunning countries in South America, boasting stunning landscapes as well as some amazing historical landmarks. If you are planning a trip to this beautiful nation, make sure to visit these must-see spots!
Santiago, the capital of Chile, boasts some of the country’s most stunning historical landmarks. We’ve curated a list of some of the top ones you should visit when in Santiago.
1. La Moneda Palace
La Moneda Palace (Palacio de la Moneda) is one of Santiago’s most significant historic landmarks, an 18th-century palace which served as Chile’s official mint and is still used today for presidential ceremonies.
Neoclassical palace designed by Italian architect Joaquin Toesca opened its doors in 1805. It served as the official seat of government until 1973 when it was bombed by military air force during Pinochet coup and President Salvador Allende took his life inside.
Since the 1990s, La Moneda has been open to visitors during certain hours of the day. You can book a guided tour by filling out an online form a few days in advance.
Renovations and remodellings to this building began as early as 1930, when its south facade was renovated and enhanced. In 1981, however, an extensive restoration took place that restored full validity to the architect’s original concept.
The building’s central facade is a striking feature. Covered in brick and lime mortar, its walls are decorated with carvings of horses and flowers.
This majestic building has been the site of major political gatherings for centuries, featuring presidents and other world leaders addressing the nation in its elegant rooms. Additionally, it serves as the official changing of the guard ceremony.
La Moneda is an essential stop on any Santiago sightseeing tour and often illuminated at night.
Foodies will enjoy La Moneda as well, as its nearby Mercado Central offers an array of local delicacies. There are several tours that combine La Moneda with the Mercado Central, featuring dinner and entertainment.
2. Malleco Viaduct
The Malleco Viaduct, situated near Collipulli, Chile 600 kilometers south of Santiago, is an engineering marvel and an iconic symbol in Chilean history. This feat of Chilean metalworking was constructed using traditional methods.
The truss bridge was constructed as part of an ambitious state program to expand Chile’s railroad network in the late 19th century. President Jose Manuel Balmaceda considered it essential for the nation’s economic future.
Victorino Aurelio Lastarria designed and constructed this structure out of steel frameworks prefabricated in France before shipping them to Chile, spanning 110 meters deep ravine near Collipulli town center.
Once finished, the bridge was considered one of the tallest railway structures in the world; however, this claim has since been challenged.
In 1885, Chilean officials sought out the top engineers in Europe to design a bridge. Many renowned French firms responded to this call for submissions; ultimately, Schneider et Cie were selected as the successful contractor.
This viaduct was an ingenious engineering solution to cross a deep gorge at Collipulli, Chile. Local engineer Victorino Aurelio Lastarria devised the idea for this feat of feat.
He decided that the best approach would be to build a large bridge over the ravine. To accomplish this goal, diagonal reinforcements were added between the beam and towers; this enabled it to support heavier locomotives and extend its lifespan.
Today, the monument is considered one of Chile’s national historical sites and it’s included on UNESCO’s Tentative list – potentially making it part of the World Heritage List in the future.
3. TV Tower
Visitors to Berlin must not miss the TV Tower, one of Berlin’s greatest historical monuments. Not only is it the highest building in Europe open to the public, but its unique position offers breathtaking views across Berlin itself.
Built in 1966, Hertz Tower is named for Hamburg physicist Heinrich Hertz who made the first theoretical discovery of electromagnetic waves during the 19th century. Nowadays it broadcasts radio and TV programmes and serves as an attractive tourist attraction.
Gaining access to the top is simple, with lifts taking only 40 seconds to transport you up. From here, you will enjoy stunning 360-degree panorama views over Berlin that make this observation deck one of Germany’s most popular tourist destinations.
On a clear day, you can admire the Reichstag, Olympiastadion and Charlottenburg Palace from the observation deck. Plus, you can have lunch or drinks in the tower’s restaurant!
Though originally constructed in East Germany, this tower has become a symbol of reunification and an iconic part of Berlin’s skyline. Its distinctive shape has earned several nicknames such as Rocket Ship, Tele-asparagus or disco ball in the sky.
For various events, such as the Festival of Lights in October, this building has been illuminated. Additionally, small obelisks surround it to honor those lost during the 1991 Fight for Freedom; each year hundreds gather here in remembrance of those who perished that fateful night.
4. Estacion Mapocho
The Estacion Mapocho is one of Santiago, Chile’s most iconic buildings. This majestic structure hosts various art and cultural events as well as international fairs and conferences.
Estacion Mapocho, originally built as an important train station, was designated a national monument in 1976. At its peak it served as an important transit hub for rail traffic between Valparaiso and Chile’s interior.
This stunning edifice has an old European facade that will surely take your breath away. Situated in Santiago’s city center, you can reach it by metro; take the yellow L2 line to Puente Cal y Canto station.
In 1994, this structure was transformed into a cultural center and has since become one of Chile’s most beloved attractions. At four stories tall, it attracts over one million visitors annually as an iconic example of Chilean culture.
Estacion Mapocho is renowned for its stunning exterior, as well as its interior design. Decorated with three two-story arches framed by intricate terra-cotta detailing and featuring a cavernous space that once housed steam engines, the building stands out among similar establishments.
Established in 1913, Estacion Mapocho served as a major transportation link between Santiago and Valparaiso. Over time, however, its routes fell out of use and the station itself began to deteriorate.
After extensive renovations, the building was transformed into the Centro Cultural Estacion Mapocho – now one of Santiago’s premier art and conference centers. This striking structure houses several restaurants, a cafe, as well as an expansive exhibition hall for performing arts events. A must-see for anyone visiting Chilean capital.