Santiago of Chile was founded on February 12, 1541 by the Spanish governor Pedro de Valdivia. At the colonial era, it was altogether only one lost village, and the major part of the architectural heritage of this time disappeared under the effect of seisms and fires. At the beginning of the 20éme century, the city counted a population of approximately 300.000 inhabitants, and she since knew a regular growth. The high-rise office buildings and the residential buildings of luxury pushed like mushrooms in the rich districts, though many inhabitants obviously continue to fight against poverty. In short, Santiago is defined obviously as a town of contrasts. Santiago is easily let discover and to the chaotic image but one corresponds by no means generally has great urban areas of Latin America
Santiago is the administrative capital of Chile, and remains its true political capital, even if the congress sits from now on at Valparaiso. Santiago in addition incarnates the principal center of finances, industry, the culture and the communications.

Santiago of Chile is often only one place where one makes a halt one day or two before taking the road for another destination. The city however has its own attractions, a vast set of museums and an interesting choice of urban walks and in mountain, and even some surprises, so that you will have by no means the impression to waste your time there.