Churches of Chiloe
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Port
Castro, Isla Chiloe, Chile
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Activity Level
Moderate Activity
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Excursion Type
12,13,All
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Wheelchair Accessible
No
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Starting At (prices in USD)
$220
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
Approximately 5½ Hours
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Meals Included
Meals included
The Churches of Chiloé represent a unique example in Latin America of an outstanding form of ecclesiastical wooden architecture. These churches embody the intangible richness of the Chiloé Archipelago, and bear witness to a successful fusion of indigenous and European culture, the full integration of its architecture in the landscape and environment, as well as to the spiritual values of the communities.
Today, all sixteen churches are being restored and have been declared UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The Friends of the Chiloé Churches Foundation has implemented a multi-dimensional program that includes training for carpenters, employment for the local people as site guides, and internationally recognized advances in restoration techniques.
Head north to Dalcahue en route the ferry terminal. At the ferry terminal you will board a ferry and cross to the island of Quinchao. Only eight minutes later, you are on the other side, and will head to Curaco de Velez. This is a very small village with approximately 500 inhabitants. Its heyday has come and gone -- it was around 1850 when cattle raisers and whalers lived the high life here. Today, though, some beautiful houses remain as a testament to better times.
Ten miles on, you'll find Achao -- a town founded as a Jesuit Residency in 1743 and now with 2,500 inhabitants. This is a very lively town indeed, as boats from all the surrounding islands converge here, making it one of the busiest ports in the area. The highlight here is the Achao Church, built in 1730.
Step inside to see some beautiful Baroque imagery.
Before leaving town, you'll enjoy a snack and listen to some typical local music.
Stop in Dalcahue to hear about this village that grew up around the cattle farming and timber industry booms of the late 19th century. Visit the handicraft market and shop for souvenirs made from local materials.
Back in Castro, you'll step inside the Church of San Francisco, built in 1906. This interesting building was intended for masonry construction by Italian architect Edward Provasoli, but the local craftsmen interpreted the plans differently and so it is made from local lumber.