Plizio Visual Lab
Votive Temple of Maipú
Plizio editorial teamData Sources
Historical site
The Votive Temple of Maipú, officially the Basilica of Our Lady of Carmel, is a monumental church located in the Maipú commune near Santiago. The structure was built to fulfill a 1818 vow made by Bernardo O'Higgins, who promised a temple to the Virgin of Carmen if Chile achieved independence. The current building was designed by architect Juan Martínez Gutiérrez and constructed between 1944 and 1974, following the destruction of the original building by earthquakes. Standing at a height of approximately 90 meters, the modern, brutalist architecture with its striking vertical lines dominates the surroundings. Inside the basilica, visitors can find significant religious artworks and stained-glass windows depicting Chilean history. The temple is a national shrine and a central pilgrimage site for the faithful from across the country, especially during celebrations honoring the patron saint of Chile.
- Location: Chile
- Top sights: Museo del Carmen · Cerro Chena · Cerro Lo Aguirre
- Nearby: Puente Alto (21 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 | 21 | 20 | 19 | 16 | 13 | 11 | 10 | 10 | 12 | 14 | 17 | 19 |
| Rain mm | 1 | 3 | 5 | 12 | 59 | 75 | 63 | 56 | 17 | 11 | 6 | 3 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The Votive Temple of Maipú in Chile is a monumental church open to visitors. The interior of the basilica and the crypt can be visited.
Typical hours
The basilica is typically open daily from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with closures during masses. The crypt may have separate hours.
Photography
Photography is allowed inside the basilica, but without flash during services. The crypt and chapels offer great subjects.
Time needed
Allow about 1 to 1.5 hours to visit the basilica and crypt. The spacious plaza in front invites you to linger.
Combine with
Combine your visit with the National Museum of History in Santiago, about 20 km away. The Maipú wine region also features wine tasting.
Getting there
The basilica is in central Maipú, about 20 km southwest of Santiago. It's easily reached by bus or taxi from Santiago.
Insider tip
Visit the basilica on a Sunday to experience a mass often combined with patriotic elements. Parking is available nearby.
Geography
Facts
- Built to fulfill a vow made by Bernardo O'Higgins in 1818.
- The current structure was built between 1944 and 1974.
- Reaches a total height of approximately 90 meters.
- Designed by the prominent architect Juan Martínez Gutiérrez.
- Houses an image of the Virgin of Carmen, patroness of Chile.
- Features an observation deck located in the bell tower.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Votive Temple of Maipú (14)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Why was this temple built?
It was built in gratitude for the victory in the Battle of Maipú, which secured Chile's independence.
Can you climb the observation tower?
Yes, the temple has an observation point at 66 meters height with a panoramic view over the Maipú Valley.
How do you get there from Santiago?
The easiest way is by Metro Line 5 to the 'Plaza de Maipú' terminus, then a 10-minute walk.
What is the Museo del Carmen?
A museum in the temple's basement showing historical documents, carriages, and religious art.
Is entry to the temple free?
Entry to the temple is free, but there is a fee for the observation tower and the museum.
Votive Temple of Maipú: where is it located?
Votive Temple of Maipú is located in Chile.
Votive Temple of Maipú: what is there to see?
Highlights include Museo del Carmen, Cerro Chena, Cerro Lo Aguirre.
Votive Temple of Maipú: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
Votive Temple of Maipú: why is it worth visiting?
The Votive Temple of Maipú, officially the Basilica of Our Lady of Carmel, is a monumental church located in the Maipú commune near Santiago.
Explore with Plizio
Discover more places in South America
More places in Chile →
Nearby cities
Santiago
The capital and largest metropolis of Chile, located in a central basin.
Puente Alto
One of the most populous cities in Chile, located south of the capital.
Maipú
A historic suburb of Santiago, famous for the Battle of Maipú.
Viña del Mar
Known as the "Garden City", this coastal resort town offers expansive sandy beaches, manicured parks, and upscale architecture.
Puerto Montt
The dynamic southern port city that marks the beginning of the Carretera Austral and the primary entry point into the Patagonian fjords.
Temuco
The commercial heart of the Araucanía region, Temuco is a pivotal city for experiencing Mapuche culture and exploring southern forests.
Concepción
A vibrant university city known for its dynamic music scene, cultural institutions, and resilience to earthquakes.
La Serena
Chile's second oldest city, known for its Spanish colonial architecture, beautiful churches, and long sandy beaches.
Chillán
A central agricultural hub famous for its extensive traditional market and access to nearby alpine hot springs.
Osorno
Osorno is a major agricultural center in Chile's Lake District, acting as the perfect gateway to surrounding volcanoes and pristine natio…
Valdivia
A historic city surrounded by rivers, known for its vibrant waterfront market, Spanish fortifications, and prominent German brewing herit…
Villarrica
A bustling lakeside hub in the Araucanía region, serving as a cultural gateway to Mapuche heritage and outdoor volcanic adventures.
Coyhaique
The capital of the Aysén Region serves as the primary service hub for the Carretera Austral.
Concón
Chile's gastronomic capital, famous for its extensive sand dunes and excellent seafood restaurants along the coast.
Castro
The geographic capital of Chiloé Island, famous for its rows of vivid palafito stilt houses and the striking yellow San Francisco Church.
