Moneda S/N, Santiago, Región Metropolitana, Chile
This was a really nice place to see, being from Chile. The palace itself is very grand although unfortunately at the time of my visit the front area was closed. The highlight of the visit was the underground area with artisan artwork of chile and a cafe.
………………..Must say this is not an impressive building like many of the “Capitalio’s” that we have encountered in our world travelling escapades. It looks more like a concrete fort two level high with only the centre been a level higher. There are armed sentries at the almost two storeys high double steel/wooden gates. Unlike many other Parliament building in the world here the public is not allowed entree. But we did discover later that if you booked a tour with a reputed or approved tour company then you would be able to go inside. A few statues of past president grace the surrounds and the lawns around the place is well kept and green. Two active fountains are in front of the building on either sides of the gate. A steel-mash barrier is placed in a front of the building and form a semi-circle from one end of the building to the other end this put the public at least 50 to 80 meters away from the entrance. Seven flag-poles fly the Chilean flags right here where the public can stand and observe the happenings around this important place! It was good to see and visit this place………………….
Nice building to take several photos ans enjoy the history of the place.
Palacio de La Moneda (Palace of La Moneda) Commonly known as La Moneda, it is the seat of the President of the Republic of Chile. It also houses the Ministry of Interior and Public Security, the General Secretariat of the Presidency, the General Secretariat of Government and the Ministry of Social Development. It is located in the commune of Santiago. The Moneda Palace is the only pure Italian neoclassical style building in America. The Palace has its main façade on Moneda Street, overlooking the Plaza de la Constitución, under which parking lots and offices were built for different dependencies of the presidency and the ministries that are there. This place is popularly called ‘the Bunker’.
Be sure to check out the presidential guard switch off. We saw it on a Sunday @ 10:45 in the morning. Lasts about half an hour. Such a great display.
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