Churches of Chiloé
The Churches of Chiloé were placed on the list because of their unique form of wooden architecture and the mestizo culture they represent.
The arrival of the Jesuits (1608) to this archipelago gave it its special mark. Groups of missionaries would travel around the islands, staying for a few days here and there. In each zone they would build chapels, looked after by laymen.
Currently, in Chiloé there are sixty churches that belong to the typology called Chilota School of Religious Architecture on Wood.
Visit March 2002
Wasn't it for the World Heritage List, I would never have heard of this place. It's left out often of Chile itineraries. Chiloe is a green island, or actually a number of islands, with a distinct culture and history.
During my Chile trip I stayed in Chiloe for a few days, both in Castro and Ancud, its main towns. I ate a lot of fish in little harbour restaurants. Salmon features prominently on the menu, for about five dollar you can have a delicious meal.
My most precious memories are of the day I spent driving around the islands, looking for old or remarkable churches. I picked up a Czech hitchhiker on the way, who was much better informed about the churches than I. I think we found six that day, in hidden towns at the end of gravel roads. You can see them, and more, in the Chiloe picture gallery on this website.
More photos can be found in the Picture Gallery
Reviews
damien (France):
Churches from Chiloe are so special for me. I adopted my two daughters in Achao village. During both adption procedure, I spent a lot of time to visit them, especially Achao, Quinchao and Dalcahue, Castro.. in 92 and 94. |
| Date posted: October 2005 |
Alealpaca (Australia):
Once again I just viewed this wonderful website. Congratulations!!!!! |
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Alexandra (Australia):
I really enjoyed visiting this website. I love Chilean architecture, especially churches and I never get tired of looking at these beautiful pictures. It sure makes me proud to be a Chilean, even though I am naturalised Australian, I will always feel Chilean. A proud South American indeed. |
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