Bellas Artes
From this point, and extending to the east, is the wooded Forest Park, created during the building boom at the beginning of the 20th Century. It is here that you will find the National Museum of Fine Arts in the posh neighborhood of Bellas Artes. Towards the west extends the Parque de los Reyes, opened in 1992. Continuing toward the north along Calle Puente, and after traversing the metal bridge that spans the large Mapocho river, you will arrive at the most traditional and popular neighborhood in Santiago. Known since the early 20th Century as "La Chimba," this community welcomed the immigration of Chilean locals as well as foreigners throughout the 19th Century who sought a better life. Because the city authorities originally saw the river as a natural border of the city, the inhabitants of this community over the river were left to their own devices until city officials sought more space for their spreading metropolis. So at the beginning of the 20th Century, a streetcar station was built in the area. Half a century later, the streetcars stopped running, and the buildings were taken over by businesses that had grown strong in the community. Today the neighborhood continues to be a populous, colorful and boisterous place, and is one more facet of this city that definitely deserves a visit.Nightlife
Attractions
Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes
Restaurants
Hotels
