If you are at Northern Chile, you just can't afford to miss the sightseeing in Antofagasta. Antofagasta is one of the most important cities of Chile. The Antofagasta tour leads to the endless array of spots constituting sightseeing in Antofagasta.
Antofagasta is the largest city of the Norte Grande region, a product of the mining boom that hit the region in the 19th century. Profitable nitrate mines of the last century brought many foreign settlers to the city. Antofagasta today possesses a markedly European feel in its architecture and ambiance. The embarkation point for copper mined at La Escondida and Chuquicamata, specially he latter holds the distinction of being the largest open-pit mine in the world.
Important tourist attractions in Antofagasta
Antofagasta is a city with a traditional outlook. This area is also blessed with the clearest skies in the world. Not more than 20 cloudy days in a year can be experienced in the city. Therefore, the city has been the home to many observatories with some of the world's largest telescopes. They are great places for sightseeing in Antofagasta.
The Barrio Historico stands out to be one of the eminent Antofagasta sightseeing attractions. One can visit the Muelle Salitrero, a national monument built in 1872 . This is a pier where the saltpeter was loaded for shipping to other parts of the world. It also served during the Pacific War as a place to embark and disembark Chilean soldiers.
Another place that should be visited by visitors is the Centro Urbano (downtown center), with the Plaza Colon surrounded by ancient trees. The Torre del Reloj (clock tower), which is a small replica of Big Ben in London and also a national monument, is also located here.
The Quiosco de la Oquesta, is the bandstand where different choirs traditionally meet to play for the public. In the Plaza Colon there is also a gothic styled Cathedral with many stained glass windows. Along one side of the church is the Teatro Municipal (Municipal theater). This has been a recent construction and intends to become a stop for well known artists. These places are also worth to be visited during sightseeing in Antofagasta.
Another interesting building of Antofagasta is the Ruina de Huanchaca, a silver foundry, constructed in 1873. It is a great natural attraction and should be visited for admiring the fascinating rock formations there.
Visitors who want to learn more about Antofagasta and the Norte Grande can visit the Museo Regional in addition to its interesting exhibits on the history of the city and the mining industry, the museum holds a colorful collection of rock and mineral samples culled from the surrounding region.
With 20 km (12 miles) of beachfront and a mild, dry climate, Antofagasta has also developed as a year-round beach resort. The highlight of its shoreline is the Portada, an enormous rock located just to the north of town, which the sea has steadily eroded into a dramatic natural arch. This is a great place for planning excursions in Antofagasta. One can also experience the fantastic scope for shopping in Antofagasta. It is a great place to shop around.So, set out for sightseeing in Antofagasta and enjoy!
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