Plaza de Armas is the beating heart of Santiago, Chile’s bustling capital, and serves as the country’s most significant historical and cultural landmark. Known as “Kilometer Zero”, this central square marks the point from which all distances in Chile are measured, making it the symbolic center of the entire nation. Since Santiago’s founding in 1541, Plaza de Armas has been the epicenter of civic life, surrounded by magnificent colonial and neoclassical buildings that tell the story of Chile’s rich history. Today, this vibrant square combines historical grandeur with modern urban energy, offering visitors a perfect introduction to Chilean culture, architecture, and daily life.
History of Plaza de Armas
Plaza de Armas was established in 1541 when Spanish conquistador Pedro de Valdivia founded Santiago del Nuevo Extremo on the exact site where the square stands today. Following Spanish colonial urban planning principles, the plaza was designed as the central focal point of the new city, with all major civic and religious buildings arranged around its perimeter.
Originally called “Plaza Mayor” (Main Square), it was designed by master builder Pedro de Gamboa and served multiple functions: a marketplace, site for public executions, civic ceremonies, and festive celebrations. The four cardinal buildings—the Cabildo (Town Hall), Casa de los Gobernadores (Governor’s House), Real Audiencia (Royal Court), and Iglesia Mayor (Main Church)—were strategically placed around the square to represent the pillars of colonial society: government, justice, and religion.
After Chile’s independence, the square was briefly renamed “Plaza de la Independencia”, though this name never gained popular acceptance. It was finally renamed “Plaza de Armas” (literally “Weapons Square”), honoring its role as a gathering place for military ceremonies and civic events.
Throughout the centuries, the plaza has undergone several renovations. In 1840, the first landscaping project introduced gardens and green spaces. In 1870, the modern Chilean plaza model was established with benches, trees, and grass areas. A major remodeling in 1999 coincided with the construction of the Plaza de Armas Metro Station, and the most recent renovation in 2014 added 40% more green areas, creating the wooded environment visitors enjoy today with 125 tree species.
Attractions at Plaza de Armas
- Metropolitan Cathedral of Santiago: Located on the plaza’s north side, this magnificent neoclassical cathedral is Chile’s most important religious building. Built between 1748 and 1800, it features stunning baroque interior decorations, marble columns, gilded altars, and beautiful stained-glass windows. The cathedral serves as the seat of the Archbishop of Santiago and houses the crypt of Chilean archbishops.
- National Historical Museum (Palacio de la Real Audiencia): Housed in the former Royal Court building on the south side, this museum showcases Chile’s fascinating history from pre-Columbian times through independence and beyond. The building itself is a National Monument dating from the colonial period.
- Central Post Office Building: Located on the plaza’s east side, this early 20th-century building exemplifies the grandeur of Chilean institutional architecture. The structure continues to serve as Santiago’s main postal facility while maintaining its historical significance.
- Municipality of Santiago: The current city hall, located on the plaza’s west side, occupies the site of the original colonial Cabildo. This building represents the continuity of civic governance from colonial times to the present day.
- Monument to Pedro de Valdivia: A prominent statue honoring Santiago’s founder stands within the plaza, along with monuments to indigenous peoples and the Apostle Santiago (Saint James), the city’s patron saint.
- Kilometer Zero Marker: An important bronze plaque embedded in the plaza’s floor marks the exact point from which all distances in Chile are measured, making it the geographic center of the country.
Things to Do at Plaza de Armas
Historical Walking Tours: Join guided tours that explore the plaza’s colonial history, architectural significance, and role in Chilean independence.
Street Photography: Capture the vibrant atmosphere with street performers, artists, historical photographers using antique box cameras, and local characters who bring the square to life.
Art Appreciation: Watch local painters create artworks throughout the day and browse their galleries of Santiago-themed pieces.
People Watching: Observe the fascinating mix of tourists, locals, street vendors, and performers from the comfort of tree-shaded benches.
Cathedral Visits: Step inside the Metropolitan Cathedral to admire its baroque interiors, religious art, and peaceful atmosphere.
Museum Exploration: Visit the National Historical Museum to learn about Chilean history and culture.
Photography with Historical Characters: Pose with costumed historical photographers who use traditional box cameras for authentic vintage-style portraits.
Enjoy Street Performances: Experience spontaneous music, theater, and comedy performances that occur throughout the day.
Plaza de Armas – Entry Eligibility and Open Timings
Plaza de Armas: Open 24 hours daily as a public space
Metropolitan Cathedral: Generally open daily 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM
National Historical Museum: Tuesday to Sunday 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM (closed Mondays)
Best visiting times: Weekday mornings for fewer crowds and more intimate local atmosphere.
How Long to Spend at Plaza de Armas
Most visitors spend 2-4 hours exploring Plaza de Armas and its surrounding attractions. A quick visit focusing on the main highlights takes about 1-2 hours, while those interested in museum visits, guided tours, and detailed exploration may spend half a day in the area.
How to Get There
By Metro:
Plaza de Armas Station serves both Line 3 (Brown) and Line 5 (Green), providing direct underground access to the square
By Bus:
Numerous Transantiago bus routes stop near the plaza along major streets like Avenida Libertador Bernardo O’Higgins and Calle Estado
By Taxi/Ride-Share:
Uber, Cabify, and traditional taxis provide convenient door-to-door service from anywhere in Santiago
Walking:
The plaza is easily walkable from other downtown attractions and many city center hotels
Tour Bus:
Hop-On Hop-Off tourist buses have a designated Plaza de Armas stop
Eateries Nearby Plaza de Armas
The area around Plaza de Armas offers diverse dining options showcasing Chilean cuisine:
Café Colonia: Historic café serving traditional Chilean coffee, pastries, and light meals with colonial ambiance.
Confitería Torres: Century-old confectionery famous for traditional Chilean sweets and once (eleven o’clock tea).
Mercado Central Restaurants: Just a few blocks away, offering the freshest Chilean seafood and traditional dishes.
Plaza Gastronómica: Food court in nearby shopping arcades featuring various Chilean and international cuisines.
Bar Nacional: Traditional Chilean bar serving pisco sours, empanadas, and classic local dishes.
Fuente Alemana: Iconic sandwich shop famous for hearty Chilean-style sandwiches and completos (loaded hot dogs).
Other Attractions Nearby Plaza de Armas
La Moneda Palace: Chile’s presidential palace, just 10 blocks south, offering free guided tours.
Mercado Central: Historic fish and produce market featuring excellent seafood restaurants, 3 blocks north.
Museo Chileno de Arte Precolombino: World-class museum showcasing pre-Columbian art and artifacts, adjacent to the plaza.
Cerro Santa Lucía: Scenic hilltop park with panoramic city views, 6 blocks southeast.
Barrio Lastarria: Bohemian neighborhood with art galleries, cafés, and weekend markets, 10 blocks east.
Central Market: Traditional market perfect for authentic Chilean food and artisan crafts.
Plaza de Armas is the historic and cultural center of Santiago, Chile, where colonial charm meets urban energy. Surrounded by architectural landmarks, museums, and lively cafés, it’s a perfect spot to experience the city’s vibrant rhythm. Visitors can admire the Metropolitan Cathedral and enjoy street performances that bring local culture to life. Just steps away, travelers seeking comfort and convenience can stay at the NH Hotel Plaza de Armas or the NH Plaza de Armas Hotel, both offering modern amenities and proximity to Santiago’s most iconic attractions. Plaza de Armas remains a timeless symbol of Chile’s history and hospitality.