University of Chile

The University of Chile is the oldest higher educational institution in the country, dating back to 1842. It comprises many buildings of historical and architectural importance and plays a key role in the country as a political and scientific hub. Peruse the museums, theaters and lecture halls in the university’s five main campuses, which cover 420 acres (170 hectares) of land in the nation’s capital.

The university was initially established in the 19th century as a replacement for the former Royal University of San Felipe, which was built in 1738. Explore the grounds and admire its historical buildings. Among the most notable structures is the Main House, which dates back to 1863 and has an eye-catching yellow, neoclassical façade. Other university buildings, including the Theater of the University of Chile in the Turri Buildings and the Law Faculty, were constructed nearly a century ago.

Investigate the intriguing collections on campus, most notably in the Pharmacy Museum, the Dentistry Museum and the National Museum of Medicine. Examine the artworks displayed in the Museum of Contemporary Art, the American Museum of Popular Art and the Juan Egenau Exhibit Hall, which celebrates a diverse range of plastic arts.

Concerts are held at several of the university’s theaters, including the Isidora Zegers Concert Hall. Check the university's official website for the schedule of events.

Interact with the local residents who work and study at this esteemed institution. Nearly 40,000 undergraduate and postgraduate students are enrolled here.

Find the University of Chile in the center of Santiago near many of the city’s main attractions. After wandering through the university grounds, stop by the nearby Palacio de la Moneda, south of the Mapocho River.

To get to the university, ride the metro to the Universidad de Chile stop, between La Moneda and Santa Lucia. Several bus stops are located along the road in front of the university as well.