- Address: Enrique Mac Iver 341, Santiago, Región Metropolitana, Chile;
- Official page: mercedarios.cl;
- Phone: +56 2 2639 5684;
- Year of construction: 1566 year.
Anyone who visited Chile's capital, Santiago, can not pass by the famous Plaza de Armas square. The usual route of tourists does not end with this landmark, but only just begins. After all, just two blocks from the square is the Basilica of the Virgin Mercedes. The church was built in the 15th century, but it is still a place of worship. Attention of tourists building attracts colorful architecture, which is appreciated by art critics. The church was elevated to the rank of the national historical monument of Chile.
History of creation
There was a Basilica in the city after the arrival of the monks of the Order of the Virgin of Mercedes, to whom the governor was provided every help. In gratitude for the seven years spent in Santiago, the monks built a church, the construction process ended in 1566. As the city, like the country, is in a zone of strong seismic activity, earthquakes could not bypass the Basilica. More than a hundred years the church stood in its original form, but in 1683 it was badly damaged due to an earthquake. The basilica was rebuilt, and worship services began to be held there again. Once again, construction and restoration work was needed in 1736, when the church was again hit by an earthquake.
Basilica of the Virgin Mercedes today
Tourists are invited to visit the whole architectural complex: it includes the church itself, the adjacent monastery, economic buildings. Travelers who are interested in the architecture of Santiago, it is necessary to look at this unique creation of man. But Basilica is of interest from a religious point of view, so it is attended by seminarians, theologians and just hungry to learn about Catholicism. A beautiful external state will help evaluate the works of restorers. Especially it is recommended to take a closer look at the building at sunset.
Agitates to visit the Basilica and step-by-step accessibility. Going to walk around Santiago, it is worthwhile to lay a route to it. Then one can see one of the most beautiful buildings built in Neo-Renaissance style. Another reason to visit the church is a museum located on the territory of the complex. It collects items of culture and art, as well as figures from the Easter Island.
How to get to the Basilica?
Getting to the Basilica is not difficult, because you can use public transport. The church is located two blocks from the central square of Santiago. Pass the stop is impossible, because the building in terracotta color stands out against the background of modern houses. This is an ideal place where you can relax from the city noise.