Chile is a predominantly Catholic country, where the faith of those who practice this religion is evident in their devotion and spiritual commitments. This deep-rooted faith has led to the construction of numerous churches across the nation, each serving as an emblem of the regions they belong to. Below is a ranking of the most attractive churches in Chile, highlighting their historical, architectural, and spiritual significance.
1. Santuario Purísima de Lo Vásquez
Located along Route 68 in the Casa Blanca area, the Santuario Purísima de Lo Vásquez started as a small hermitage in the garden of Don José Ulloa. Funded by donations, it eventually expanded when Ulloa converted an old adobe barn, previously owned by Don Vicente Vásquez, into a chapel. Today, it stands as an important pilgrimage site, attracting thousands of faithful visitors annually.
2. Catedral Metropolitana
Just steps away from the Plaza de Armas in Santiago, the Catedral Metropolitana is one of the first symbols of Catholicism in Chile. Established alongside Catholicism as the official religion of the country in the 16th century, this grand cathedral houses the remains of Chilean archbishops and bishops within a red crypt. Visitors can also find the monument to the Battle of La Concepción, which preserves the hearts of four individuals who participated in the conflict.
3. San Francisco de Castro
The southern region of Chile is home to many UNESCO World Heritage-listed churches, but the San Francisco de Castro cathedral stands out due to its official heritage status granted in 2000. Located in the heart of Castro, this church played a crucial role in the evangelization of Chiloé’s inhabitants. It was also declared a National Monument on July 19, 1979, by the Chilean tourism authority, SERNATUR.
4. Iglesia de Guayacán
Situated along the northern coast, in Guayacán, near La Herradura Bay, this church initially had only a small oratory for religious services. However, businessman Maximiliano Errázuriz commissioned a Belgian company to construct a new temple, designed by the renowned Gustav Eiffel. This architectural masterpiece stands as a unique blend of industrial and religious design.
5. Iglesia de San Pedro de Atacama
Dating back to 1745, this church is located in the central plaza of San Pedro de Atacama and is a major tourist attraction, especially for American visitors. It was declared a National Monument in 1951 and is considered the most significant architectural landmark in the area. Built from stone and adobe, with a roof made of chañar and carob wood, the church honors Saint Peter, who is celebrated annually on June 29 with traditional dances.
6. Los Sacramentinos
Situated on Santa Isabel Street, in front of the Diana amusement park in Santiago, the Iglesia de los Sacramentinos was a gift to the community to commemorate the first centenary of Chilean independence. Designed similarly to the iconic Sacré-Cœur Basilica in Paris, this church was once one of the tallest buildings in Santiago and remains an architectural landmark of historical significance.
7. San Vicente Ferrer
More commonly known as the Iglesia de Los Dominicos, this church is a well-known landmark in the Las Condes district of Santiago. With its colonial design and two copper domes, it has been declared a National Monument. Over the years, humidity and time have taken a toll on its structure, particularly affecting its domes, which have lost their original luster. Nevertheless, its colonial charm remains intact, making it a prominent historical site within Parque Los Dominicos.
8. Catedral San Mateo Apóstol, Osorno
One of the most distinctive buildings in Osorno, this cathedral has a more modern design compared to the churches of Chiloé. Originally constructed in 1577, it was rebuilt with reinforced concrete after the devastating 1960 earthquake. Its unique architectural style stands as a testament to the resilience and faith of the local community.
9. Iglesia de San Francisco
This is the oldest church in Santiago and serves as a serene entrance to the Paris-Londres neighborhood. Surrounded by a beautiful garden with peacocks, the church provides a peaceful escape from the bustling city. Inside, visitors can find the Virgin of Socorro (also known as the Virgin of the Bundle), the patron saint of Pedro de Valdivia. The combination of history and tranquility makes this church a must-visit site in Santiago.
10. San Agustín
Known as the “Church of the Christ of May,” this church holds a fascinating legend. According to historical records, after an earthquake shook the city, only one wall of the church remained standing—the one that protected the Christ of May statue. When the bishop attempted to restore the statue’s crown to its original position after it had slipped from Christ’s forehead to his neck, another tremor occurred. To this day, it is believed that whenever someone tries to adjust the crown, an earthquake follows, adding a mystical allure to this sacred site.
Chile’s churches are more than just places of worship; they are living monuments that reflect the country’s history, architectural evolution, and deep-rooted faith. Whether constructed with colonial adobe or modern concrete, these churches continue to serve as symbols of devotion and cultural heritage. Whether you are a traveler, historian, or religious devotee, visiting these stunning churches offers an enriching experience, blending spirituality with Chile’s rich historical tapestry.
