Metropolitan Cathedral of Santiago

The Metropolitan Cathedral

The Santiago audio-guided tour invites you to quiet contemplation before the Metropolitan Cathedral, majestically standing at the corner of the Plaza de Armas. Seat of the archdiocese of Santiago, it offers a haven of calm and grace in the midst of the tumult of the capital.

Five buildings and as many trials

The present cathedral is the last of a series of five constructions, the previous ones having been destroyed by fires or earthquakes, Chile being located in a zone of strong seismic activity. Designed by the Italian architect Joaquín Toesca, it was completed around 1800, while the first attempts went back to 1566. Its architecture mingles baroque influences and neoclassical style, and its façade conceals a rich collection of liturgical art.

What there is to see

Inside, in contemplation, the visitor discovers a richly adorned nave and the museum of sacred art, which presents notably pieces of sixteenth-century Bavarian silverware that belonged to the Jesuits, old furniture and various works of art. Entry is free. It is a place of faith and beauty, to be discovered with respect.

Practical information

The Metropolitan Cathedral stands at the corner of the Plaza de Armas, in Santiago. A place of worship in activity, it can generally be visited during the day, entry being free, with respect for services. Access is more restricted on Sundays, due to the hours of mass; it is on the level.

Why was the cathedral of Santiago rebuilt several times?

Because the previous buildings were destroyed by fires and earthquakes, Chile being a region of strong seismic activity.

Who designed the Metropolitan Cathedral?

The Italian architect Joaquín Toesca; the cathedral was completed around 1800, in a mixture of baroque and neoclassical influences.