Santiago Metropolitan Cathedral 🇨🇱

Discover the Santiago Metropolitan Cathedral, the seat of the Archdiocese of Santiago and the primary Catholic temple in Chile. Situated in the Santiago commune directly in front of the historic Plaza de Armas, this iconic national monument is dedicated to the Assumption of the Virgin Mary. First established in 1541 when Pedro de Valdivia designated an Inca temple site for a church, the current structure is actually the fifth built on the spot, following a series of devastating earthquakes and fires.

Built between 1748 and 1906, the cathedral was designed by renowned architects Joaquín Toesca and Ignacio Cremonesi. Inside its expansive 4,500-square-meter footprint, you will step into a grand three-nave layout featuring a Tuscan and Roman-inspired design. Marvel at the soaring central nave adorned with painted square ceiling scenes, carved 19th-century pulpits, and an ambon shaped like an eagle.

At the far end stands the historic main altar, crowned by a marble ciborium crafted in Munich, alongside a 1754 pipe organ built by German Jesuits that remains in use today.

What to see at Santiago Metropolitan Cathedral

• Plaza de Armas location alongside the Archbishop's Palace and Parish del Sagrario
• Central nave with a painted ceiling, 19th-century pulpits, and an eagle-shaped ambon
• Historic 1754 pipe organ crafted by German Jesuits that is still in use
• Munich-built marble ciborium and the image of the Assumption of Our Lady
• Modernized Archiepiscopal Crypt located beneath the main presbytery

Visiting tips

Take time to admire the historic altarpiece and delicate marble details in the central nave while maintaining quiet respect during active religious services.

How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Morning

How to get there & what’s nearby

Santiago Metropolitan Cathedral is easy to reach on Santiago’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Chilean National Museum of Fine Arts. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Santiago travel guide.