Municipal Theater, Santiago

In the heart of Santiago Municipal Theater hangs a mesmerizing teardrop crystal chandelier, a silent witness to a rich tapestry of extraordinary performances that have graced its hallowed halls. This exquisite chandelier holds within it the stories of renowned ballet dancers, pianists, conductors, and violinists, whose artistic brilliance has been etched into the very walls of the theater.

The construction of this architectural marvel, the result of collaboration among several talented architects, culminated in its grand inauguration in 1857. On that momentous occasion, the theater hosted its maiden show, "Ernani," an opera by Giuseppe Verde, presented by an esteemed Italian company. The theater, boasting a capacity to accommodate 1,800 spectators, came alive with an air of anticipation and delight.

Throughout the passage of time, the majestic building endured the ravages of numerous fires and earthquakes, each catastrophe met with meticulous restoration efforts. In recognition of its historical and cultural significance, the theater received the honor of being declared a national monument in 1974. In the years that followed, it continued to foster a stellar reputation for artistic excellence, delivering unparalleled performances that captivated audiences from far and wide.

More than a bastion of captivating live performances, the theater has also embraced the digital age, carving a unique place for itself with its digital documentation center. Safeguarding the theater's cherished history and the cultural heritage of the country, this repository of knowledge offers invaluable insights into the past. The information housed within the center is made accessible to all through the Internet, providing a priceless resource free of charge.

Why You Should Visit:
Ballet, theatre, philharmonic orchestra and operas with artists and dances from all over the world.
There are guided tours twice a day, and you can visit areas not normally included in theater tours.

Tip:
There are limited spaces, of course, so for big events, you would need to book early.