Chile is filled with energetic, effervescent names, so it's clear that the capital of Santiago, its pride, is no different. The distinctly South American colonial architecture, Latino passions, and 24-hour musical Streetlife are the face of Santiago. It is the center of all the economic, political and cultural events of the country.
The city is the result of its terrain: sprawled across the fertile Santiago Valley, a hundred kilometers from the Pacific coast, it dominates the vast Andes belt to the east and a slightly smaller range to the west. After gaining independence from Spain in 1818, thousands of Europeans sailed to start a new life around the valley. Its proximity to the ocean is still felt, and seafood lovers are most comfortable in the city - don't miss the banging and buzzing at the central Mercado fish market.
Santiago is full of contrasts. Fine art galleries compete with cutting-edge contemporary exhibitions. The shimmering towers of the financial district (known as "Sanhattan") contrast with the city's edgy street art. The sidewalk bars of the Bellavista district are a perfect contrast to the high-end restaurants for high-income guests in the Vitacura quarter. And right there, the 18th-century cathedral finds its reflection in the glass facade of the high-rise building.
Nevertheless, for all its differences, the city has not lost sight of its heritage - the indigenous peoples. This may be a crude example, but the biggest soccer team in the city, Colo Colo (eternal rivals of Universidad de Chile may find fault with this description) has a logo depicting the Mapuche— an Indian people. And Chileans from all walks of life admire and identify with the Mapuche as a symbol of the country's strength and independence, whether it's brutal regimes or natural disasters.
Monuments and museums such as Villa Grimaldi Peace Park and the wonderful Museum of Memory and Human Rights remember the dark days of the Pinochet era.
Until recently, Cementerio General was one of the treasures of Santiago alone, but now it is growing in popularity. This is an unusual burial ground, rather a mini-metropolis of amazing graves. Some are extravagant, some are beautiful, almost all are striking in one way or another. They are also of great historical interest — several leading politicians are buried here, including Salvador Allende, and there is a memorial to all those who disappeared during the Pinochet years. Getting a powerful welcome bonus on a modern betting platform is an excellent way to begin with a real advantage. On 1Win, newcomers can claim a boosted package during registration by using a special promo code. Entering it in the form significantly increases the total reward. Right after activation 1win promo code 500% up to $1025 spread over four deposits becomes available. These funds allow you to explore popular sports markets and try your luck in the casino section while meeting reasonable wagering requirements.