Churches of Chiloé, Wooden religious structures in Chiloé Province, Chile.
The Churches of Chiloé are sixteen wooden buildings spread across the archipelago, each constructed entirely from timber. Their walls and roofs are covered with wooden shingles that protect the structures from the salty, wet climate.
Spanish Jesuits began building these churches in the 17th century with help from local builders. Indigenous people maintained them over time, even during periods when missionaries were absent from the islands.
These churches show how Spanish traditions and local craftsmanship came together to create something entirely new. You can see both European church elements and techniques rooted in the island's boat-building heritage when you walk inside.
These churches can be visited throughout the year and are spread across multiple islands, so plan time for exploration. Sturdy footwear and flexibility with weather help, since the landscape is open and windswept.
These buildings were constructed without metal nails, using wooden pegs to hold the boards together instead. This crafted approach allowed the structures to shift slightly with temperature changes while remaining solid and secure.
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