Museo Colonial 🇨🇱

Located in Santiago, Chile, Museo Colonial (Colonial Museum) offers a fascinating window into the historical, cultural, and religious heritage of Chile and South America during the colonial era. If you are exploring Santiago's rich past, this museum is a must-visit destination. You will find it housed inside the historic convent right next to the iconic San Francisco Church.

As you wander through its dedicated exhibition spaces, you will encounter an impressive collection of colonial-era objects, including historic furniture, intricate sculptures, and remarkable paintings. Many of these religious artworks were originally crafted in Peru, which served as the former colonial capital. Among the museum's most notable features is a truly gigantic genealogical tree of the Franciscan Order.

This massive artwork is extraordinarily detailed, featuring a total of 644 miniature portraits within its design. Visiting Museo Colonial allows you to step back in time and appreciate the fine craftsmanship, religious art, and historical narratives that shaped the region during its colonial period. It provides a peaceful, reflective environment where you can immerse yourself in South American history right in the heart of the city.

What to see at Museo Colonial

• Housed in the historic convent adjacent to San Francisco Church
• Extensive collection of colonial paintings, sculptures, and furniture
• Religious artworks crafted in Peru, the former colonial capital
• A gigantic Franciscan Order genealogical tree featuring 644 miniature portraits
• Exhibits dedicated to the colonial period of Chile and South America

Visiting tips

Be sure to take extra time to closely examine the 644 detailed miniature portraits woven into the gigantic Franciscan Order genealogical tree.

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

How to get there & what’s nearby

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