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Santa Lucia Hill might not be the biggest park in Santiago, but over the centuries it played an outsized role in the transformation of this former Spanish colony into a thriving metropolis. Formed by a volcano, the peak was chosen by Spanish conquistador Pedro de Valdivia in 1541 as the site to declare Chile a Spanish colony. By the early 19th century, as Chile fought for independence from Spain — which it won in 1818 — the hill served as a fortress for Spanish troops.

Today it’s hard to imagine this lush park as a former bastion: Ornate staircases shaded by mature trees lead through a vertical greenspace filled with sculptures, fountains, chapels and dramatic overlooks.

The hill isn’t the only thing that’s changed. Beyond the ancient church spires and broad plazas of the historic center, Santiago’s outward development spans a shining sea of skyscrapers spreading nearly to the mountains and including Latin America’s tallest building.

According to the World Economic Forum, Chile is not only Latin America’s most competitive nation, but — thanks largely to exports of minerals, wood, fruit, seafood and wine — it also boasts South America’s highest gross domestic product. The country also remains one of the United States’ strongest partners in Latin America and a leader in promoting respect for the rule of law, economic stability, education, environmental protection, human rights and sustainable development.

As Chile grows, planners work to ensure infrastructure will meet demand. After five years, Santiago’s Arturo Merino Benitez International Airport completed its expansion project. The new international terminal, which will allow the airport to handle 30 million passengers per year, expects to open in early 2022. In 2020 the country launched Chile on Rails, a $5.5 billion investment plan to expand and improve passenger and cargo rail service. The program will also work to integrate trains with other modes of transport, including Santiago’s Metro system. An additional $330 million in roadwork projects will keep truck and automobile traffic flowing in and around the sprawling capital city.

CHECKING IN WITH JUAN JOSÉ ORTEGA PÉREZ
Manager, Chile National Tourism Service

Santiago presents a fascinating blend of old and new. What are some of your favorite places to send visitors to help them see both sides of the city?
Las Condes, in the eastern sector of the city, is an outstanding gastronomic neighborhood where visitors can also appreciate several parks and some of the newest real estate development in the city.

In the historic center, I recommend visiting Palacio de la Moneda (the presidential palace). At 11 a.m. on odd days and weekends, you can watch the changing of the guards. The Palacio stands on the Plaza de Armas, where the city was founded. You’ll also find various attractions on the plaza including the Chilean Museum of Pre-Columbian Art, which houses the largest collection of pre- Hispanic art in all of Latin America.

Cerro Santa Lucia is another must-see in the historic center, offering a 360-degree view of the city. Finally, Cerro San Cristóbal Metropolitan Park is one of the four largest urban parks in the world. You can hike through the park or ride a funicular to its cable car.

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What would surprise first-time visitors to Santiago?
The great variety of attractions nearby. The largest skiable area in the entire Southern Hemisphere lies less than two hours from Santiago and offers first- rate services. You’ll also find more than 35 vineyards nearby where you can enjoy a world-class wine tasting, dine in their restaurants or explore by bicycle.

El Cajón del Maipo is incredibly beautiful; it offers plenty of outdoor adventure including rafting, hiking, climbing and horseback riding through the mountains. Also, less than two hours from Santiago you can visit Valparaíso. Its graffiti-covered streets were declared a World Heritage site by UNESCO.

What Chilean dishes should visitors try when in Santiago?
Caldillo de congrio, a hearty soup made from conger; curanto, a full meal cooked in the ground; and machas a la parmesana, baked razor clams with Parmesan cheese, are all part of our culture.

How is Santiago changing?
Santiago underwent great changes in recent years as a result of economic development and commercial openness. Chile has an open economy and many free trade agreements, which has made it an excellent place to do business. The change is noticeable in the strong real estate development, in the architecture and the new skyscrapers. Immigration has also brought talent from different cultures, which makes Santiago a cosmopolitan city filled with new businesses, services, foods and ideas.