Explora la cultura de Valparaiso: Tradición viva
Sumérgete en la rica historia y cultura de Valparaiso a través de sus museos y monumentos.
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La Sebastiana (Pablo Neruda's House)
Valparaíso is a mystical and colorful port city, declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Built on dozens of hills that fall abruptly towards the sea, it is famous for its historic elevators, its vibrant street art and its bohemian atmosphere that has inspired poets such as Pablo Neruda.
Culture & Heritage
Discover the rich history, art and traditions of Valparaiso
Cultural capital of Chile. The street art is some of the best in the world and the artistic life is constant.
Best of local culture
Museums & Galleries
La Sebastiana (Pablo Neruda's House)
One of the poet's three houses, full of curious collections and with an unbeatable view of the bay.
Cerro Alegre
The most touristy hill, full of boutique hotels, art galleries and colorful facades.
Artillery Elevator
One of the most iconic elevators that takes you to Paseo 21 de Mayo.
Baburizza Palace (Museum of Fine Arts)
Impressive Art Nouveau mansion that houses the city's art collection.
Festivals & Events
New Year in Valparaíso
December 31Fireworks throughout the bay, a world famous experience.
Rockodrome
DecemberThe largest Chilean music festival in the country, with stages in various parts of the city.
Thousand Drums Carnival
First weekend of OctoberCelebrating spring with music, dance and street art.
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History
Origins
Originally inhabited by the Chango people, the bay was discovered by the Spanish in 1536. During the colony, it was the main port of the Kingdom of Chile, although it suffered constant attacks from pirates and privateers.
Development
In the 19th century, after independence, Valparaíso experienced its 'Golden Age' as a mandatory stopover for ships crossing the Strait of Magellan. It became a cosmopolitan financial center with a strong influence of European immigrants.
Modern era
The opening of the Panama Canal in 1914 marked the commercial decline of the port. However, the city reinvented itself as the cultural capital of Chile, obtaining recognition from UNESCO in 2003 and consolidating itself as a global tourist and university destination.
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Culture
Cultural capital of Chile. The street art is some of the best in the world and the artistic life is constant.
Heritage
Fundamental to understanding global trade in the 19th century and the republican history of Chile.
Architecture
A fascinating architectural chaos where Victorian mansions coexist with colored corrugated iron houses.
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Sunset in the Cemetery
Cemetery N°1 and N°2 in Cerro Panteón offer incredible funerary architecture and very peaceful views of the city.
Trolleybuses
Take the trolleybus (line 802) to explore the Plan. It is the oldest electric transportation system in South America in operation.
Respect for Murals
Street art is sacred. Do not scratch over existing murals.
Tips
In restaurants, 10% is suggested (often it is suggested on the bill). Walking tour guides are often tipped voluntarily.
Tap Water
It is drinkable throughout Chile, although it has many minerals. If you have a sensitive stomach, prefer bottled water.
Sunscreen
UV radiation in Chile is very high, even on cloudy days. Always use it.
Don't 'give the pawpaw'
Local expression that means not to tempt thieves. Don't walk with your phone in your hand or your camera hanging in lonely areas.
Be careful on the stairs
Avoid climbing very lonely or poorly lit stairs, especially at dusk. Prefers elevators.
Tickets and monuments in Valparaiso
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