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Casa Colorada
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Historical site
The Casa Colorada, located in the historical center of Santiago, is one of the best-preserved colonial-era residences in Chile. The building was constructed between 1769 and 1779 for Mateo de Toro y Zambrano, who later became the president of the First Government Junta in 1810. The name derives from the characteristic red bricks on its facade, which were a symbol of wealth and status at the time. The architecture features a large interior courtyard, thick adobe walls, and elegant wooden balconies. Today, the house hosts the Museum of Santiago, documenting the city's development from pre-Hispanic times to the present day. Despite suffering severe earthquake damage over the centuries, the building has been carefully restored and was declared a National Monument in 1977. It serves as a living testimony to the aristocratic lifestyle in colonial Santiago.
- Location: Chile
- Top sights: Museum of Precolombian Art · Museo Histórico Nacional · Museo de Química y Farmacia
- Nearby: Puente Alto (10 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 22 | 21 | 20 | 16 | 13 | 9 | 8 | 10 | 12 | 15 | 18 | 21 |
| Rain mm | 8 | 9 | 10 | 12 | 44 | 63 | 47 | 40 | 15 | 12 | 9 | 7 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
Casa Colorada is a historical museum in a colonial mansion in Santiago. Visitors can explore several rooms furnished with colonial-era furniture and art. The inner courtyard is particularly worth seeing.
Typical hours
The museum is typically open Tuesday to Sunday from 10:00 to 18:00. It is closed on Mondays. Hours may vary on holidays.
Photography
Photography without flash is allowed in the exhibition rooms. In some rooms with sensitive artworks, photography may be restricted. Ask the staff about current rules.
Time needed
Allow about one hour for the museum tour. If you are interested in Santiago's history, you may spend up to two hours.
Combine with
Casa Colorada is located in Santiago's historic center, near Plaza de Armas and the cathedral. The Palacio de la Moneda and the Museum of Fine Arts are also not far away.
Getting there
The museum is well accessible by metro (Plaza de Armas or La Moneda stations). From there it is just a few minutes on foot. Parking in the city center is expensive and limited; public transport is recommended.
Insider tip
Inquire at the museum about the original use of each room - the former governor's palace has a turbulent history. The visit pairs well with a coffee at the nearby Café del Museo.
Geography
Facts
- Built between 1769 and 1779 for Mateo de Toro y Zambrano.
- The name refers to the original red color of the facade.
- One of the few remaining colonial houses in Santiago.
- Has housed the Museum of Santiago since 1981.
- Declared a National Monument of Chile in 1977.
- Features two large interior courtyards based on Spanish design.
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Notable places around
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Sights in the town Casa Colorada (14)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Why is it called the 'Red House'?
It owes its name to the dark red bricks on its facade, which have been typical since colonial times.
When was it built?
The house was completed in 1769 for Mateo de Toro y Zambrano and is a jewel of colonial architecture.
What is inside the building today?
It houses the Museo de Santiago, which showcases the city's development from its beginnings to the present.
Where is Casa Colorada located?
In the heart of downtown Santiago, just a few steps from Plaza de Armas.
Is the house wheelchair accessible?
The interior courtyard is easily accessible, but the upper floors may have restrictions due to stairs.
Casa Colorada: where is it located?
Casa Colorada is located in Chile.
Casa Colorada: what is there to see?
Highlights include Museum of Precolombian Art, Museo Histórico Nacional, Museo de Química y Farmacia.
Casa Colorada: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
Casa Colorada: why is it worth visiting?
The Casa Colorada, located in the historical center of Santiago, is one of the best-preserved colonial-era residences in Chile.
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