Established in 1987, CEAC Universidad de Chile, short for Centro de Extension Artistica Y Cultural Universidad de Chile was set up to showcase art and culture of Chile. Some of the best artists who are of high profiles come here to conduct events and showcase different artistic events.
Teatro Apoquindo is located in the middle of Calle Apoquindo, not far from the El Golf metro station. The municipal performing arts theater stages Chilean plays. In the evenings, it is a cinema which usually shows re-runs of films which are no longer in theaters anymore but do not cease to be classics. The theater is done up in plush interiors, a grand stage and an intimate setting; giving the place a welcoming vibe. So, when you are in the city, watching one of the plays at Teatro Apoquindo, will simply add to your already enjoyable trip.
A vibrant land, the Parque Metropolitano is a beautiful green area which hosts on its premises the hills of San Cristóbal, Chacarillas, Gemelos and Pirámide. Occupying about 728 hectares (1798.93 acres) of land area, it is one of the largest parks in the country. Its forestation began in 1921 and, in 1926, the mayor Alberto Mackenna transformed it into a public area. The summit is 860 meters (2821.52 feet) above sea level, crowned by an image of the Virgin of the Immaculate Conception sitting on a pedestal. This is a favorite spot for a Sunday outing, whether on foot, bicycle, car or funicular. There is a zoo, two swimming pools, picnic areas, restaurants, children's play area, a chapel and botanical gardens replete with diverse floral species. Visitors are recommended to go all the way up to the summit in order to enjoy a full view of Santiago, particularly in summer. On a clear day, it is possible to survey the snow-capped Andean peaks in all their glory and splendor.
The creation of this marvelous park started in 1841, when this land was still beyond the boundaries of Santiago. Now, it is in the heart of an old residential neighborhood. The aim was to acclimatize foreign plant species and increase their reproduction, a task handed to French naturalist Claudio Gay, its first director. In 1875, construction of the neoclassical building started, which today houses the Natural History Museum. Also, paths were drawn and a lake was built to add to the visitors enjoyment. Nowadays, Quinta Normal has 40 forested hectares with a great variety of trees, and has been declared a nature sanctuary. The Science and Technology Museum and the Railway Museum are also located on its grounds. There are many sporting facilities and a spectacular little lake ideal for paddle-boating and those in love. The park is quite busy on the weekends, and often frequented by locals, particularly families.
This interesting bohemian neighborhood was once known as part of the Barrio de la Chimba, which in the Quechua language means 'the other side of the river'. This area has a romantic and picturesque quality that attracts locals, artists and tourists alike, making it a happening night spot with many cultural activities, art galleries, theaters, restaurants and dance halls. Pablo Neruda's residence La Chascona can be found in this neighborhood. It is highly recommended during the day for jewelry shopping; the jewelry is made using lapis lazuli, a semiprecious stone that can be found in countries like Chile and Afghanistan.
Artequín is an innovative scheme that allows children and young people to get close to the world of art through artistic reproductions, audiovisual materials, computers and intelligent robots. It is situated in the beautiful National Monument of the Paris Pavilion. There are tours led by professional guides and a multimedia room that includes audiovisuals, CD-ROMs, laser discs and a computer database. This museum is an excellent place for learning and for carrying out research projects.