Barrio Brasil

Barrio Brasil is a bohemian heritage neighbourhood west of central Santiago, known for its early-twentieth-century mansions, street art and lively student and artistic scene. Once the fashionable address of the city's elite, it fell out of favour before being rediscovered by artists, universities and night owls.

Its significance lies in its architecture and revival. The district preserves an unusual concentration of grand houses in eclectic, neo-Gothic and Art Nouveau styles, many now converted into cafés, hostels and cultural centres. At its heart, the shaded Plaza Brasil anchors the neighbourhood, and murals cover walls throughout, reflecting the creative energy that returned as the area gentrified around several nearby campuses.

The barrio sits just beyond the old core, within walking distance of the Palacio de La Moneda and the central markets, and served by the metro. Its low-rise streets, leafy squares and painted façades give it a village feel distinct from the towers of the modern centre, while the adjoining Barrio Yungay adds further heritage streets and eateries.

For visitors, Barrio Brasil rewards a relaxed wander. Explore the mansions and murals by day, pausing at the plaza and the district's independent cafés and restaurants, then sample its nightlife, which draws a young, local crowd to bars and live-music venues. Prices are moderate and the atmosphere unpretentious. As with any lively urban quarter, ordinary caution at night is sensible. For travellers seeking Santiago's cultural and creative side, and a sense of how the city's grand old neighbourhoods have been reclaimed by a new generation, this characterful barrio offers architecture, art and atmosphere in equal measure, all within easy reach of the centre. The nearby planetarium and the campuses of the University of Santiago feed the youthful, studenty crowd that fills its bars and music venues each evening.