Santiago´s Churches and Religion
Welcome to this historical and cultural tour through the heart of Santiago! On this experience, we will explore the architectural and heritage richness of the city center's most iconic churches, while gaining an understanding of how faith and religion have evolved in Chilean society.
Itinerary
This itinerary can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Send me a message with your requests!
Meeting Point
Pascucci Café
- Café Pascucci, Plaza de Armas Santiago
Cathedral of Santiago
The Metropolitan Cathedral of Santiago, is Chile's primary Catholic church and a major historical landmark. Designed in the late 18th century by Italian architect Joaquín Toesca, this neoclassical and Renaissance-style cathedral features a lavishly decorated interior with intricate gold leaf, frescoes, and marble altars. Beneath its main floor lies a historic crypt housing the tombs of prominent Chilean bishops and political leaders.
Basílica de La Merced
The Basilica de La Merced, located at Merced street, is one of Santiago’s most historically significant Neoclassical churches. Originally built by the Mercedarian Order in the 16th century and rebuilt in the late 18th century, it features a grand red-and-white facade, twin bell towers, and a richly decorated interior.
Iglesia San Agustin
The Church of San Agustín is one of Santiago’s oldest colonial churches, originally founded in 1608. Rebuilt following major earthquakes, it features classic colonial architecture and holds immense cultural importance as the home of the Cristo de Mayo (Christ of May), a famous 17th-century carved wooden crucifix surrounding local legends linked to the notorious colonial figure La Quintrala.
Iglesia San Francisco
The Church of San Francisco is the oldest surviving building in Santiago, dating back to the late 16th century. Built by the Franciscan Order, its thick stone walls have remarkably endured centuries of severe earthquakes, and it features a distinctive 19th-century clock tower and a magnificent Mudéjar-style wooden ceiling inside. Adjacent to the church, the former Franciscan convent houses the Museum of Colonial Art, showcasing one of South America's most significant collections of Cuzco School religious art.
The Franciscan friars who reside in the convent belong to the Order of Friars Minor (OFM), founded by St. Francis of Assisi. Known for their vow of poverty, simple lifestyle, and brown habits, the monks have historically focused on community service, charity, and preserving the religious and cultural heritage of early colonial Santiago.
Ending Point
Iglesia San Francisco
Want to personalize this tour?
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This tour can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Click below to send me a message with your requests.
Inclusions & Exclusions
* Guides fee
*entrance to churches and cathedral
* gratuities
Tour Important Information
* This tour involves a lot of walking, so make sure to wear comfortable shoes.
* This tour visits churches, when inside the buildings, please keep respect.
* This tour is not wheelchair accessible.
Important message from the supplier
Please message the tour guide for special request.
Cancellation Policy
- Free cancellation - 8 days prior to meeting time
- 50% Refund - 3 to 7 days prior to meeting time
- No Refund - Within 2 day(s) prior to meeting time
About Tour Guide Mary P.
Hello, I'm Mary. I offer personalized, tailor-made tours throughout Santiago, Chile and its central valley. Whether you're looking for detailed historical context or customized local itineraries, I adapt every trip to fit your exact preferences and interests
$40/ per group
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