The best of the Paris - Londres Neighborhood
Since 2021, Santiago's city center has undergone significant changes following the pandemic and the social upheaval of 2019. Many businesses and companies have relocated to other parts of the city, leading to the abandonment of key areas.
However, in recent years, the Paris-Londres area has been undergoing a revitalization. Historic buildings are being transformed into vibrant gastronomic hubs, housing areas, and spaces for entrepreneurs. We invite you to explore Barrio Paris-Londres and consider it during your next visit to Santiago de Chile.
The captivating Paris - Londres Neighborhood
A Little Bit of History
The Paris-Londres district dates back to Santiago's colonial period when the Franciscan Order established a convent in this area, beside the “Cañada” (the former Mapocho River creek before its canalization in the 18th century). The Franciscans built their church and convent in the 16th century on what is now the Paris-Londres area. Due to financial difficulties, they had to sell a large portion of their land by the late 17th century.
As a result, the Barrio Paris-Londres was created. The neighborhood was designed by talented architects of the time, such as Alberto Cruz Montt and Ricardo Larraín Bravo, who sought to replicate the elegance of European cities they had visited during their studies.
These beautiful mansions once captivated Santiago's elite. However, as the city grew, these families moved to other areas. The mansions then became homes to many artists and bohemian figures, including the renowned poet Pablo Neruda.
Today, the cobblestone streets of Paris-Londres showcase a fascinating blend of businesses, history, and culture that attracts both locals and tourists.
How to Explore Barrio Paris-Londres
1.- Church of San Francisco
Begin your exploration at the Church of San Francisco, Santiago’s oldest church, completed in 1618. This building exemplifies colonial architecture and engineering, having withstood numerous earthquakes. Inside, you’ll find religious art, local quarry rock walls, an impressive Mudéjar-style ceiling, and marble tombstones of notable Santiago citizens, including Joaquín Toesca, the architect of the Moneda Palace and the Metropolitan Cathedral.
The tower of the San Francisco Church, designed by Fermin Vivaceta
2.- San Francisco Colonial Arts Museum
The Colonial Arts Museum is housed in the former convent of the Church of San Francisco, which opened in 1623. The museum displays Santiago's finest collection of colonial art, including works by members of the Franciscan order and an entire hall dedicated to Gabriela Mistral, Chilean poet and Nobel Prize winner in 1945. Mistral’s final wish was to donate her prize to the Franciscan order, which now preserves her legacy.
The entry to the Colonial Museum, next to the Church of San Francisco
3.- Londres 38, Site of Memories
Londres 38, a residential home built in 1925, became a site of detention and torture during the military coup led by Augusto Pinochet, which overthrew President Salvador Allende. Between 1973 and 1974, it was used for forced interrogations and executions. Today, it serves as a site of memory and reflection, with visits available from Tuesday to Friday via a self-guided tour.
4.- Pan de Villa, A Delightful Stop
In 2020, chef Fabián González opened Pan de Villa, a bakery initially located in Maipú. Known for its sourdough bread, the bakery quickly gained local support. It has since moved to Paris-Londres, offering authentic French bakery and patisserie items. Pan de Villa is now a must-visit spot in the neighborhood, renowned for its croissants, cookies, and sourdough bread. Enjoy a delicious coffee and a sweet treat while exploring this historic district.
Make sure to taste Pan de Villa's delicious croissants!
sourdough bread, cookies and many more at "Pan de Villa". Find them on Instagram: @pan_devilla
5.- Bar Monterosa, A Local “Picada”
No visit to Santiago is complete without experiencing a local “picada,” a bar that has stood the test of time and witnessed significant events in the city’s history. Bar Monterosa, founded in 1965 by Italian immigrant Don Gino, is one such bar. Known for its hearty homemade meals and famous “cola de mono” (a traditional Chilean drink), it has been a favorite spot for both locals and notable figures like Salvador Allende. It’s considered one of Santiago’s “heritage bars” and is part of the “Los Bares son Patrimonio” initiative.
Enjoy a warm "Cazuela", "Porotos con Rienda", or some delicious "Pantrucas" at Monterosa. Photos by @mango.merken and @monterosa.chile on Instagram
Delicious Borgoña, Terremoto and Cola de Mono. Photos by @mango.merken and @monterosa.chile on Instagram
6.- Londres 45, Downtown’s New Bistro Bar
After enjoying a meal at Monterosa, head to Londres 45 Bistro Bar, one of the newest additions to Santiago's dining scene. With a menu inspired by Chilean and Peruvian cuisine, Londres 45 offers a modern dining experience in a beautifully restored historical building. Its signature cocktails and vibrant atmosphere make it a great spot to enjoy Santiago’s nightlife.
Indulge with the very best of Santiago's nightlife at Londres 45 Bistro bar. Photos from Instagram: @londres45bistrobar
Photos from Instagram: @londres45bistrobar
Photos from Instagram: @londres45bistrobar
Barrio Paris-Londres has made a concerted effort to reposition itself as a must-visit area of the city. We hope this guide helps you explore and enjoy it to the fullest!
