Background

Palacio Pereira: A Neoclassical Gem in Santiago

Explore Santiago's Palacio Pereira: A beautifully restored neoclassical landmark blending history, culture, and modern design in the heart of the city.

4.7

Palacio Pereira, a beautifully restored neoclassical mansion in downtown Santiago, stands as a testament to Chile's rich architectural and political history. Once a private residence, it now serves as a cultural center and a powerful symbol of the country's heritage.

A brief summary to Palacio Pereira

  • Huérfanos 1515, Santiago, Santiago Metropolitan Region, CL
  • Visit website

Local tips

  • Check the Palacio Pereira website for current exhibitions, events, and guided tour schedules.
  • Allow ample time to explore the palace's various spaces, including the exhibition halls, documentation center, and café.
  • Combine your visit with a stroll through the surrounding historic district of Santiago, known for its charming streets and cultural attractions.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Walking

    Palacio Pereira is located at Huérfanos 1515, in downtown Santiago, easily accessible by foot from many central locations. From the Plaza de Armas, walk west along Calle Huérfanos for about 8 blocks. The palace will be on your left. The walk is generally flat and takes about 15-20 minutes.

  • Public Transport

    The closest Metro stations to Palacio Pereira are Santa Ana (Line 2 and Line 5) and Plaza de Armas (Line 5). From Santa Ana, walk east along Calle Huérfanos for about 4 blocks. From Plaza de Armas, walk west along Calle Huérfanos for about 8 blocks. A Bip! card is required to use the Metro; the card can be purchased and recharged at any Metro station for a small fee. A single Metro fare costs approximately 800 CLP (approximately $1 USD).

  • Taxi

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are readily available throughout Santiago. A taxi ride from the city center to Palacio Pereira will typically cost between 2,517 CLP to 4,476 CLP (approximately $3-5 USD), depending on traffic and distance. Ensure the driver uses the meter, or negotiate the fare beforehand.

Unlock the Best of Palacio Pereira

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Palacio Pereira

Palacio Pereira, located in downtown Santiago, is a meticulously restored neoclassical mansion with a captivating history. Built in 1872 for Luis Pereira Cotapos, a prominent Chilean senator and businessman, the palace was designed by French architect Lucien Hénault, who also contributed to other iconic Santiago landmarks. The building showcases elements of 17th-century French Renaissance style, featuring a symmetrical facade, semicircular windows, and ionic pilasters. Over the years, Palacio Pereira has undergone many transformations. After serving as a family residence, it was sold to the Archdiocese of Santiago and later housed a public savings bank and a girls' high school. Unfortunately, the palace suffered significant damage and neglect, particularly after the 1973 coup. Declared a National Historic Monument in 1981, it wasn't until 2011 that the Chilean government acquired the building with the vision of restoring it to its former glory. The restoration project, led by architects Cecilia Puga, Paula Velasco, and Alberto Moletto, was completed in 2020. The project sought to respect the building's history while incorporating contemporary design elements. Today, Palacio Pereira serves as a cultural center, hosting exhibitions, a documentation center, a library, and a café. It also houses offices for the Ministry of Culture, Arts and Heritage, solidifying its role as a significant cultural and administrative hub. The palace even served as one of the headquarters for Chile's Constitutional Convention, further cementing its place in the nation's political landscape. Visitors can explore the palace's public spaces, admire its architecture, and learn about its history through guided tours. The blend of historical preservation and modern design makes Palacio Pereira a unique and compelling destination for tourists and locals alike.

Popular Experiences near Palacio Pereira

Popular Hotels near Palacio Pereira

Select Currency