C
U.S. Secretary of Defense Robert M. Gates touring Chilean art museum in Santiago

Chilean Museum Of Pre Columbian Art

Santiago, Chile

Comprehensive Guide to Visiting Palacio de la Real Aduana de Santiago, Santiago, Chile

Date: 18/07/2024

Introduction

The Palacio de la Real Aduana de Santiago, located in the bustling heart of Santiago, Chile, stands as a monumental edifice of immense historical, architectural, and cultural significance. Constructed between 1805 and 1807 by the Spanish architect Juan José de Goycolea y Zañartu, this neoclassical masterpiece initially served as the Royal Customs House. Its establishment was a direct response to Santiago’s burgeoning trade activities during the colonial period, necessitating a formal customs office to regulate and facilitate commerce (Santiago Tourist). Today, the palace houses the Museo Chileno de Arte Precolombino, a museum dedicated to the art and culture of pre-Columbian civilizations in Latin America, offering a comprehensive understanding of the region’s rich cultural history (Museo Chileno de Arte Precolombino). This guide provides detailed information on the palace’s history, architectural details, cultural offerings, and practical visitor information such as visiting hours and ticket prices, ensuring an enriching visit to this iconic landmark.

Table of Contents

History of Palacio de la Real Aduana de Santiago

Origins and Construction

The construction of the Palacio de la Real Aduana de Santiago began in 1805 under the direction of the Spanish architect Juan José de Goycolea y Zañartu. Originally intended to serve as the Royal Customs House, the building was completed in 1807, making it one of the oldest surviving public buildings in Santiago.

Architectural Style

The palace is a prime example of neoclassical architecture, featuring a symmetrical façade, grand columns, and a pediment adorned with classical motifs. The use of local materials and the adaptation of European architectural principles to the Chilean context make this building a unique representation of colonial architecture in South America.

Role During the Colonial Period

During the colonial period, the palace was the central hub for the collection of customs duties and taxes on goods entering and leaving the colony. This function was vital for the Spanish Crown, ensuring a steady flow of revenue from the lucrative trade routes connecting Europe, Asia, and the Americas.

Post-Independence Transformation

Following Chile’s independence from Spain in 1818, the palace underwent several transformations. In 1845, it was repurposed to house the National Mint, reflecting the new republic’s need for a centralized institution to manage its currency.

Earthquake and Restoration

The Palacio de la Real Aduana has withstood several earthquakes, most notably the 1960 Valdivia earthquake. Extensive restoration efforts have preserved the historical and architectural integrity of the palace while reinforcing its structure to withstand future seismic events.

Current Use and Cultural Significance

Today, the Palacio de la Real Aduana de Santiago houses the Museo Chileno de Arte Precolombino, dedicated to the art and culture of pre-Columbian civilizations in the Americas. The museum’s collection includes artifacts from various indigenous cultures, providing a comprehensive understanding of the region’s rich cultural history.

Visitor Information

Ticket Prices and Opening Hours

  • Tickets: General admission tickets are available for purchase at the museum entrance or online. Discounts are often available for students, seniors, and children.
  • Opening Hours: The museum is typically open from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, Tuesday to Sunday. It is closed on Mondays and public holidays.

Guided Tours and Special Events

Guided tours are available and offer detailed explanations of the building’s design, construction, and historical transformations. The museum also hosts special events and temporary exhibitions, providing additional insights into pre-Columbian art and culture.

Nearby Attractions

The Palacio de la Real Aduana is located near other historical sites in Santiago, such as the Plaza de Armas, the Metropolitan Cathedral, and the Central Market. These nearby attractions make it easy to plan a full day of sightseeing in the city.

Visitor Tips

Travel Tips

The palace is easily accessible via public transportation, including buses and the Santiago Metro. Parking is also available nearby.

Accessibility

The museum is wheelchair accessible, and accommodations are made for visitors with disabilities.

Photographic Spots

The neoclassical architecture and historical significance of the building make it a great spot for photography. Be sure to capture the grand columns and detailed pediment.

FAQ

Q: What are the Palacio de la Real Aduana de Santiago visiting hours?

A: The museum is typically open from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, Tuesday to Sunday.

Q: How much are the tickets for the Palacio de la Real Aduana de Santiago?

A: General admission tickets are available for purchase at the museum entrance or online, with discounts for students, seniors, and children.

Q: Are guided tours available?

A: Yes, guided tours are available and offer detailed explanations of the building’s design, construction, and historical transformations.

Conclusion

The Palacio de la Real Aduana de Santiago is not merely an architectural gem but also a vibrant symbol of Chile’s dynamic history. From its origins as a colonial customs house to its current role as the Museo Chileno de Arte Precolombino, the building encapsulates the evolution of Santiago and the broader Chilean nation. The museum’s extensive pre-Columbian art collection, combined with the palace’s neoclassical architecture, offers visitors a unique and enriching cultural experience. Located near other historical sites such as the Plaza de Armas and the Metropolitan Cathedral, the palace is an essential destination for anyone exploring Santiago’s rich heritage. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, an art lover, or simply a curious traveler, a visit to the Palacio de la Real Aduana de Santiago promises to be a memorable journey through the past and present of Chilean culture. For more updates and information, consider following us on social media or checking out related posts (Museo Chileno de Arte Precolombino).

References

Visit The Most Interesting Places In Santiago

Academy Of Christian Humanism University
Academy Of Christian Humanism University
Adolfo Ibáñez University
Adolfo Ibáñez University
Alberto Hurtado University
Alberto Hurtado University
Andrés Bello University
Andrés Bello University
Barrio Lastarria
Barrio Lastarria
|
  Bernardo O'Higgins University
| Bernardo O'Higgins University
Biblioteca De Santiago
Biblioteca De Santiago
Bolivarian University Of Chile
Bolivarian University Of Chile
Campos De Sports De Ñuñoa
Campos De Sports De Ñuñoa
Casa Central De La Universidad De Chile
Casa Central De La Universidad De Chile
Casa Colorada
Casa Colorada
Casa De Santo Domingo 627
Casa De Santo Domingo 627
Casa Espínola Pereira
Casa Espínola Pereira
Castillo Hidalgo
Castillo Hidalgo
Caupolicán Theatre
Caupolicán Theatre
Centro Cultural Gabriela Mistral
Centro Cultural Gabriela Mistral
Centro Cultural La Moneda
Centro Cultural La Moneda
Cerro Alvarado
Cerro Alvarado
|
  Children'S Museum
| Children'S Museum
Chilean-British Culture University
Chilean-British Culture University
Chilean Museum Of Pre-Columbian Art
Chilean Museum Of Pre-Columbian Art
Chilean National History Museum
Chilean National History Museum
Chilean National Museum Of Fine Arts
Chilean National Museum Of Fine Arts
Chilean National Museum Of Natural History
Chilean National Museum Of Natural History
Chilean National Zoo
Chilean National Zoo
Club De La Unión
Club De La Unión
Costanera Center
Costanera Center
Daniel Zamudio
Daniel Zamudio
Diego Portales University
Diego Portales University
|
  Embassy Of The People'S Republic Of China, Santiago
| Embassy Of The People'S Republic Of China, Santiago
Estación Mapocho Cultural Center
Estación Mapocho Cultural Center
Estadio Monumental
Estadio Monumental
Estadio Municipal De Lo Barnechea
Estadio Municipal De Lo Barnechea
Estadio San Carlos De Apoquindo
Estadio San Carlos De Apoquindo
Estadio Santa Laura-Universidad Sek
Estadio Santa Laura-Universidad Sek
Fantasilandia
Fantasilandia
Former National Congress Building
Former National Congress Building
Fuente De Neptuno, Santiago De Chile
Fuente De Neptuno, Santiago De Chile
Funicular De Santiago
Funicular De Santiago
Gabriela Mistral Gallery
Gabriela Mistral Gallery
Gabriela Mistral University
Gabriela Mistral University
Hipódromo Chile
Hipódromo Chile
Hospital Militar De Santiago
Hospital Militar De Santiago
Hospital San Juan De Dios
Hospital San Juan De Dios
Instituto Geográfico Militar
Instituto Geográfico Militar
Internado Nacional Barros Arana
Internado Nacional Barros Arana
La Chascona
La Chascona
Laura Vicuña
Laura Vicuña
Londres 38
Londres 38
Los Héroes
Los Héroes
Luis Emilio Recabarren
Luis Emilio Recabarren
Mercado Central De Santiago
Mercado Central De Santiago
Metropolitan University Of Educational Sciences
Metropolitan University Of Educational Sciences
Metropolitan University Of Technology
Metropolitan University Of Technology
Monumento A Salvador Allende, Santiago De Chile
Monumento A Salvador Allende, Santiago De Chile
Movistar Arena
Movistar Arena
Municipal Theatre Of Santiago
Municipal Theatre Of Santiago
Museo Colonial
Museo Colonial
Museo De Artes Visuales
Museo De Artes Visuales
Museo De Colo-Colo
Museo De Colo-Colo
Museo De La Solidaridad Salvador Allende
Museo De La Solidaridad Salvador Allende
Museo Ferroviario De Santiago
Museo Ferroviario De Santiago
Museo La Merced
Museo La Merced
Museo Nacional Benjamín Vicuña Mackenna
Museo Nacional Benjamín Vicuña Mackenna
Museo Parque De Las Esculturas De Providencia
Museo Parque De Las Esculturas De Providencia
Museum Of Chemistry And Pharmacy Of The University Of Chile
Museum Of Chemistry And Pharmacy Of The University Of Chile
Museum Of Memory And Human Rights
Museum Of Memory And Human Rights
National Library Of Chile
National Library Of Chile
Nave Centro Creativo
Nave Centro Creativo
Palace Of The Royal Consulate Court Of Santiago
Palace Of The Royal Consulate Court Of Santiago
Palacio Cousiño
Palacio Cousiño
Palacio De La Moneda
Palacio De La Moneda
Palacio De La Real Aduana De Santiago
Palacio De La Real Aduana De Santiago
Palacio De La Real Audiencia De Santiago
Palacio De La Real Audiencia De Santiago
Palacio De Los Tribunales De Justicia De Santiago
Palacio De Los Tribunales De Justicia De Santiago
Panul Forest
Panul Forest
Parque Araucano
Parque Araucano
Parque Brasil
Parque Brasil
Parque Mahuida
Parque Mahuida
Parque Mapocho Poniente
Parque Mapocho Poniente
Parque Natural Aguas De Ramón
Parque Natural Aguas De Ramón
Parque Natural San Carlos De Apoquindo
Parque Natural San Carlos De Apoquindo
|
  Parque O'Higgins Circuit
| Parque O'Higgins Circuit
Parque Peñalolén
Parque Peñalolén
Plaza De Armas (Santiago)
Plaza De Armas (Santiago)
Plaza De La Ciudadanía
Plaza De La Ciudadanía
Plaza De La Constitución
Plaza De La Constitución
Plaza Mulato Gil De Castro
Plaza Mulato Gil De Castro
Pontifical Catholic University Of Chile
Pontifical Catholic University Of Chile
Presidente Pedro Aguirre Cerda
Presidente Pedro Aguirre Cerda
Public Health Institute Of Chile
Public Health Institute Of Chile
Real Universidad De San Felipe
Real Universidad De San Felipe
San Miguel
San Miguel
San Sebastián University
San Sebastián University
Sanctuary On San Cristóbal Hill
Sanctuary On San Cristóbal Hill
Santiago Metropolitan Park
Santiago Metropolitan Park
Santiago Museum Of Contemporary Art
Santiago Museum Of Contemporary Art
Santiago Street Circuit
Santiago Street Circuit
Seguro Obrero Massacre
Seguro Obrero Massacre
Sek University Chile
Sek University Chile
Teresa Of The Andes
Teresa Of The Andes
Titanium La Portada
Titanium La Portada
Torre Entel
Torre Entel
Universidad Católica Silva Henríquez
Universidad Católica Silva Henríquez
Universidad Central De Chile
Universidad Central De Chile
Universidad De Los Andes
Universidad De Los Andes
Universidad Finis Terrae
Universidad Finis Terrae
Universidad La República
Universidad La República
Universidad Mayor
Universidad Mayor
Universidad Santo Tomás
Universidad Santo Tomás
University For The Arts, Sciences, And Communication
University For The Arts, Sciences, And Communication
University Of Alba
University Of Alba
University Of Art And Social Sciences
University Of Art And Social Sciences
University Of Informatics Sciences
University Of Informatics Sciences
University Of Santiago
University Of Santiago
University Of The Americas
University Of The Americas
University Of The Pacific
University Of The Pacific
Workshop Museum
Workshop Museum