Chile is an amazing ancient country, which is unconditional exotic for Russians. The capital of the state, Santiago de Chile, whose sights are striking in its diversity, today is a huge city with a unique look and very welcoming population.
History of the city
Mapuche Indians once lived on the site of modern Santiago de Chile, archaeologists say that the first settlements appeared here about 15 thousand years ago. The climate of the country is quite severe, so the population of the first inhabitants developed very slowly, approximately in the second millennium BC, agricultural and cattle-breeding cultures are formed here. Gradually, lands are settled by immigrants from other regions, and by the 14th century, settlements with a great diversity of ethnic composition were formed here, such peoples as Changas, Atakamenos, Almar live together.
In 1471, the Incas took control of the region. In 1520, the first European, Fernand Magellan, set foot on the land of South America, from this moment a new round of history begins for the future of Chile. In 1541, Pedro de Valdivia, the Spanish conquistador, smashes a settlement at the foot of the Santa Lucia mountain, which later becomes the city of Santiago de Chile. The conqueror hardly mastered new lands - local Indians fiercely resisted. De Valdivia proclaimed himself governor of Chile and gave the name to the new city in honor of the Apostle Saint James. Pedro de Gamboa, who was entrusted with the construction of a new city, plans to settle according to the ancient system with a large area in the middle, with a cathedral, a luxurious governor's house and a prison.
Governor Valdivia could not be constantly in the city, he led the troops in the Araucan war against the local Indians. In September 1541, the Indians destroyed the city, defending the rights to their historical land. In subsequent years, the Spaniards rebuilt the city, reflecting the fierce attacks of the Mapuci tribes. Of course, the Spaniards won, destroying a huge amount of the local population, and the city already lived its own life.
Until 1818, Santiago de Chile was part of the kingdom of Peru, Chile was a poor colony and remained in the shadow of a powerful ruler. In 1808, when the colonial oppression of Spain weakened as a result of its capture by Napoleon, a wave of liberation movement began in Chile. It led to the fact that in 1810 Chile declared its independence, this led to an almost 10-year war. But the status of an independent country was defended, and Santiago became the capital of the new state. Throughout its history, the city suffered several major earthquakes that affected its appearance. In the 20th century, Santiago became the scene of political wars, there were coups, the reign of the junta, the restoration of democracy. Since the late 1990s, Chile has been actively promoting itself as a tourist region, travelers traveled to the capital, and the city began a new stage in its history.
general characteristics
Santiago - the capital of Chile, is located in the center of the country, surrounded by majestic mountain peaks. The city flows Mapocho River, which originates in mountain streams, also in Santiago there are 4 more smaller rivers and there are 6 artificial canals. The climate of Santiago is similar to the Mediterranean one with short rainy winters (average temperature 10 degrees) and hot summers (average temperature 26 degrees), the city is especially good in autumn and spring. The population of the city is 5.5 million people, the ethnic composition of the population is very diverse, these are descendants of Europeans, Indians of various tribes. Most people in Santiago consider themselves Catholics.
Today, Santiago de Chile is a large economic center, there are centers of textile, food, chemical, engineering industries, and trade is underway. Despite the fact that it is the capital, all government bodies are located in Valparaiso. The structure of the city is unique: it consists of independent municipalities, communes, without centralized management. In total, 37 communes belong to the capital, and only one of them is called Santiago, all together they are called Greater Santiago.
How to get there
In Santiago de Chile, whose airport is 15 km from the city, the easiest way to get to European airlines. There is no direct flight connection between Russia and Chile, so the most convenient option is to dock at one of the airports in Europe, for example, in Lisbon or Madrid. The flight will take about 18 hours or more, depending on the time of transfer. But such a long journey will be more than rewarded with the beauties and sights of the city.
Things to do
The capital of Chile offers a variety of recreational opportunities. In addition to sightseeing, you can taste Chilean wines and dishes. Be sure to visit the Central Market, which presents a huge variety of fish and seafood, fruits and vegetables. Here you can eat real Chilean food, such as eel or ceviche soup . You can go to a football match: the Universidad de Chile team in Santiago are real national heroes. Each of their games is not only a sporting event, but also a fascinating observation of the fans' experiences.
For tourists with children, Fantazilandia Park with a lot of attractions is a must. Chilean shopping is another fascinating activity, in Santiago there is a village of artisans where you can buy various handicrafts, and at the same time see and even try different types of crafts.
Another story is wine tasting. Chilean wines are so good that the pope, for example, drinks only them. Today in Santiago de Chile special tours with tastings are held, where you can learn about the creation of wine and try different varieties.
The main attractions
Many cities in South America represent a unique combination of different cultural traditions, and Santiago de Chile (Chile) is no exception. Description of attractions always begins with Plaza de Armas - the heart of the city. Around the square there are interesting historical sites. It is worth paying attention to the governor's house, the building of the Royal Audience, the Cathedral, the palace of La Moneda.
The main cathedral of the country, which is also the largest, was built in the late 18th century in the Baroque style, it houses a unique organ and carved wooden chairs of the 19th century. The official residence of the President of Chile, the palace of La Moneda, in the classical style, is a real gem of the city.
An important attraction of the city is the Museum of Pre-Columbian Art, a unique collection of Native American household items, crafts, and art is collected here. The city is interesting for its contrasts: next to the ultra-modern skyscrapers you can meet patriarchal quarters with two-story mansions.
Where to eat
In Santiago de Chile, no one will remain hungry. There are a lot of cafes and restaurants. Many establishments with national cuisine with prices for any wallet. One of the most luxurious restaurants is the elegant and expensive El Divertimento, where you can try high Chilean cuisine. You can eat meat prepared according to local recipes in the restaurant Dona Tina, the average bill here is quite moderate. In addition, there are a lot of small cafes in the city where you can try very tasty authentic food, the main thing is to choose an institution where many local residents eat. On the Central market are concentrated food outlets with an average price and very high quality food.
Helpful information
Santiago is the prosperous capital of Chile; the transport system is very well developed here. The fastest way to get to the right place will help the metro. In order to visit Santiago de Chile, Russians do not need a visa. For a quick acquaintance with the city, you can use the comfortable double-decker buses for tourists who tour the main places of the capital. The most popular souvenirs from Santiago are products from alpaca and llama wool, souvenirs from a tree in ethnic style, ceramics and, of course, wines.
Interesting Facts
Santiago de Chile survived four major earthquakes: in 1647, when about 600 inhabitants of the city died, in 1822 and 1835, when many buildings of the conquistadors were destroyed, in 2010, when about 2 million were left homeless inhabitants, the number of dead and missing has exceeded 2 thousand. There is a law in Santiago that requires September 18, on Motherland Day, to display a national flag on every building. The capital of Chile was recognized as the safest city in South America, here you can walk at any time in any area of the city.