Palacio La Alhambra

Palacio La Alhambra is a historical palace in Santiago built across approximately 1,170 square meters with two interior courtyards. The structure features Moorish architectural elements, intricate stucco decorations, and Islamic-inspired mosaics throughout its spaces.

Construction took place in 1862 under architect Manuel Aldunate's direction, commissioned by mining aristocrat Francisco Ossa Mercado. The project aimed to replicate the famous Alhambra Palace from Granada in Chile.

It has housed the National Society of Fine Arts since 1940, serving as a venue for art exhibitions and cultural events in downtown Santiago.

The palace is located in downtown Santiago and can be explored through guided tours that provide detailed access to its interior spaces. Visiting during regular hours when the building is active as a cultural center offers the best experience.

The second courtyard features a water clock fountain with stone lions that mark the hours through controlled water streams, mirroring the original Granada feature. This functional artwork demonstrates the technical skill applied to recreate this complex original element.

Location: Santiago commune

Inception: 1862

Architects: Manuel Aldunate y Avaria

GPS coordinates: -33.43929,-70.65599

Latest update: December 8, 2025 19:53