VeraCruz Church, Santiago

Pedro de Valdivia, the conquistador and founder of Santiago, is commemorated through several monuments, with the most prominent one being the Veracruz Church situated in the Lastarria district of Santiago. Erected in the 19th century, this temple stands as a remarkable tribute to his historical significance.

The architectural splendor of the Veracruz Church lies in its unassuming simplicity. The facade exhibits elegant vertical lines and a Doric-influenced doorway, lending an understated yet captivating charm to the structure. Adjacent to the church, there are two neoclassic houses dedicated to parish activities.

Inside the church, visitors are greeted by a captivating sight dominated by a figure of Jesus Christ, gifted by the Spanish King during the 16th century to the religious order of Our Lady of Mercy. Throughout the years, countless pilgrims have journeyed to the church annually to pay their respects to this sacred symbol. In 1983, the Veracruz Church was rightfully recognized as a remarkable piece of both historical and architectural heritage, being designated as a National Monument.