10 Things to Do in Palacio de La Moneda, Santiago, Chile
Santiago, Chile's capital and largest city, is home to the Palacio de La Moneda, the seat of the country's government and one of the most iconic buildings in South America. The majestic building is a must-see for anyone visiting Santiago, and there are plenty of things to do in and around the Palacio de La Moneda. Here are 10 of the best.
1. Tour the Palacio de La Moneda: The Palacio de La Moneda is one of the most impressive buildings in Santiago. The building is open to the public and guided tours are available. The tour will take you through the main halls and rooms, including the Sala de Honor, the Sala de los Presidentes, and the Sala de los Ministros. You'll also get to see the impressive collection of art and artifacts inside the palace.
2. Visit the Museo Histórico Nacional: Located within the Palacio de La Moneda, the Museo Histórico Nacional is one of the most important museums in Santiago. The museum contains a wealth of information about Chile's history, from the pre-Columbian era to the present day. It's a great place to learn about the country's past.
3. See the Changing of the Guard: Every day at noon, the changing of the guard ceremony takes place in front of the Palacio de La Moneda. The ceremony is a sight to behold, as the soldiers march in perfect synchronization. It's a great way to experience the pageantry of Chilean military life.
4. Explore the Plaza de la Constitución: Located right outside the Palacio de La Moneda, the Plaza de la Constitución is a great place to relax and take in the sights. On the plaza, you'll find a statue of Bernardo O'Higgins, Chile's first president, as well as a monument to the heroes of the War of the Pacific.
5. Attend a Performance at Teatro Municipal: The Teatro Municipal, located just a few blocks away from the Palacio de La Moneda, is the main theater of Santiago. It hosts a variety of performances, from opera to ballet to theater. It's a great place to experience the culture of Santiago.
6. Visit the Chilean National Museum of Fine Arts: The Chilean National Museum of Fine Arts is one of the most important art museums in Santiago. It houses a large collection of Chilean and international art, from the colonial era to the present day. It's a great place to explore the country's artistic heritage.
7. Take a Stroll Through Parque Forestal: Parque Forestal is a large park located right in the heart of Santiago. The park is a great place to take a stroll and admire the city skyline. You'll also find a number of sculptures and monuments, including a statue of Chilean poet Gabriela Mistral.
8. Explore the Mercado Central: The Mercado Central is one of the largest markets in Santiago. Here, you'll find an array of fresh fruits and vegetables, as well as a variety of meats, seafood, and other local products. It's a great place to get a taste of Chilean cuisine.
9. Climb Cerro Santa Lucía: Cerro Santa Lucía is a small hill located just a few blocks away from the Palacio de La Moneda. The hill is a great place to get a panoramic view of Santiago. It's also a popular spot for locals to go for a walk or jog.
10. Visit the Museo de Arte Precolombino: The Museo de Arte Precolombino is a museum dedicated to the art and culture of pre-Columbian Chile. The museum houses a large collection of artifacts, from pottery to jewelry to textiles. It's a great place to learn about the history and culture of the region.
Whether you're looking for culture, history, or just a relaxing stroll, there's plenty to do in and around the Palacio de La Moneda in Santiago, Chile. From the changing of the guard to the Mercado Central, there's something for everyone in this historic city.