SANTIAGO HISTORY

On February 12th 1541, Pedro de Valdivia founded Santiago de la Nueva Extremadura, not realizing that 6 months later the small village would be attacked by the brave Mapuches , and that centuries later it would become the political, cultural, administrative and economic center of one of the most dynamic and progressive countries in South America.
Throughout its history, this capital has collected a series of architectural treasures that compel you to walk through it slowly in order to discover splendid buildings like the Red House, a colonial style construction of 1769, which has been turned into a Museum and the "Palacio de la Moneda" (Palace of the Mint) (1805) - in the neo-classical style and the seat of the Chilean government. What is more, you have its splendid Cathedral, built in 1785.
There are also other important spots, such as the extensive parks and the majestic Art Museum, opened in 1910, a conservative touch that provides a contrast with the adventurous design of the modern buildings and the bohemian atmosphere of the suburbs, where the surroundings invite one to take a break and have a coffee.
The capital of Chile (543 m. above sea level) is not only attractive because of its architectural contrast between the past and the present, or its busy cultural agenda, but also because of its luxurious hotels and tempting restaurants, where you can enjoy a delicious empanada (pasty) or succulent fish and seafood, while savoring magnificent wines.

Santiago is ideally located between beaches and snow-covered mountains, a perfect spot for visiting the exciting snowy ski runs towering 50 kilometers away. To the west, modern highways connect with the coastal cities of Viña del Mar, Valparaiso, and San Antonio.

Like Santiago, the central coast enjoys a Mediterranean climate, with short, mild winters and a sunny summer season lasting over eight months. Here a chain of white-sand beaches and coastal resorts offers something for every taste, from luxury hotels to secluded cabañas, picnics on the beach to fresh seafood in an open-air restaurant.
To the north, the climate grows gradually hotter and drier. The chain of beaches and resorts continues north to La Serena,, Chile's second-oldest city now known for its production of pisco, a grape brandy which follows close behind wine on the list of Chile's preferred drinks.
To the south, the central valley comes into its own. These were the fertile lands first claimed by the Spanish conquistadores; here the Chilean huaso (cowboy) still spends his day astride his horse in the traditional manta (poncho) and sombrero, honing his skills for annual rodeo rodeo competitions.
To the east, the Andes are an unforgettable presence, cloaked in white in winter and spring, storing meltwater for the rivers which irrigate Chile's heartland. Beyond that first line of peaks, visible from anywhere in the Central Valley and from many places along the coast, lies a wilderness of glacially sculpted canyons, glaciers and microclimate forests, alpine lakes and thundering rivers. Lateral roads lead into the cordillera, providing access to numerous national parks and truly endless opportunities for skiing ,hiking and mountaineering, mountain biking, horseback riding and rafting.
Santiago is divided into 32 districts or "comunas", each one run by its own town council. The central offices of banks and main government buildings are located in downtown Santiago. Commerce is gradually heading towards the east side of the city, to the districts of Providencia, Las Condes and Vitacura. Most hotels, commercial, banking and entertainment areas are located in these districts. The industrial area of Santiago is found in the districts of Quilicura, Huechuraba and Pudahuel to the north and northwest of the city. The south and west districts of Santiago are predominately residential.