Palacio Matte, National monument in Santiago, Chile
Palacio Matte is a historic building at the intersection of Compañia de Jesus Street and Hermanos Amunategui Street in central Santiago, featuring a continuous facade around its perimeter. A glass dome tops the central courtyard and is decorated with native Chilean flowers, casting light down onto the double-height space below.
In 1883 it became the first private building in Santiago to receive electrical power, even before the presidential palace La Moneda. The early 1900s brought a redesign that introduced European spatial arrangements, marking a turning point in the building's development.
The building reflects European design traditions that shape how people experience and move through its spaces today. These influences remain visible in the room arrangements and architectural details.
The building sustained significant damage during the 2010 earthquake, so access may be limited or restricted. Visitors should check ahead about current conditions since the building's use has changed over recent years.
The central courtyard is topped with a glass dome decorated with native Chilean copihue flowers and green garlands, a rare decorative touch. This creates a soft glow that fills the entire double-height space, making it one of the building's most memorable features.
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