Visit the Palacio de la Moneda (Coin Palace) to stand at the scene of notable events in Chilean history. Peak inside presidential offices and watch performances by marching bands. Inaugurated in 1805, the ornate neoclassical palace started life as Chile’s royal mint before becoming the official presidential residence and later the seat of government.
Stand in Plaza de la Constitución and observe the palace’s elegant façade, characterized by symmetrical windows and orderly columns. Wander through the main archway to the building’s courtyards. Check out the two 18th-century cannons at the entrance to the first courtyard. Take a moment to ponder the 1973 military coup, which led to Augusto Pinochet’s violent dictatorship for a quarter of a century. Continue to the picturesque Patio de los Naranjos, named for the orange trees that surround an ornamental 17th-century fountain.
Watch the palace’s changing of the guard ceremony, which takes place every odd-numbered day at 10 a.m. Listen to a medley of military and non-military songs performed by marching band. The event closes with an exchange of salutes and a rendition of the Chilean national anthem.
To the south you’ll find the Centro Cultural La Moneda, a cultural centre located in the basement of Plaza de la Ciudadania. It presents a variety of interesting expositions, from audiovisual and contemporary art displays to independent movie screenings and design exhibitions.
Dominating Plaza de la Constitución in Santiago’s city centre, the Palacio de la Moneda is a 10-minute walk from Plaza de Armas. Public buses, the metro and a hop-on, hop-off tourist bus all provide easy access. Nearby attractions worth visiting include the architecturally impressive Santiago Stock Exchange Building and a picturesque street called New York.
The palace is open from Monday to Friday and access to the courtyards is free. Admission may be restricted during government events. Book ahead for a free guided tour, which includes the palace’s most emblematic rooms. Find full details on the palace’s official website. The cultural centre is open daily, except for some public holidays. Admission is free before noon every day.
