The neighbourhood was established in 1839 to celebrate Chile’s victory in the Battle of Yungay.
It was also one of the first planned residential
neighborhoods for Santiago’s elite.
Over time it transitioned into a mixed working and
middle-class area.
Today, it’s a Bohemian neighbourhood recognized as a “Zona Típica” (heritage
district), preserving its historical character.
We chose it as a destination for a Sunday walk and created our own self-guided walking tour of discovery.
It is considered Chile’s Bohemian city.
It’s famous for its steep hills, colorful houses and
historic funicular elevators (ascensores) that climb between the lower harbor
area and the residential neighborhoods above.
The historic quarter, with narrow winding streets and colonial architecture, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The city’s historical centre has restrictions protecting the buildings.
But outside the centro, out in “the burbs”, facades and
walls can be decorated more dramatically with less restrictions.
It is organized by a group of local young activists and its aim is to bring new artists and art to the streets of the post-war city.
Like other street artists around the world, they also want to redefine the city's public
spaces and revitalize abandoned buildings.
