We had an absolutely fabulous tour of Santiago, thanks to our private guide, Carlos.
We toured the "New Santiago" and the "Old Santiago" which is quite a contrast. Santiago has a population of 3 million people with over a third of Chile's population living here.
A highlight of the day was Carlos managing to get us entrance into the Presidential Palace. It was great to get inside the palace to see the grounds and guards with a bunker beneath for presidential protection.
Another great place to visit in the city was Santa Lucia Hill where the city was founded in 1541. Beautiful flowers and gardens with a climb to the upper panaramic view of the entire city.
We visited the Cathedral Church where mass was held today.
Carlos steered us to our Valentine's dinner at a special seafood restaurant "El Galeon" where we had fabulous fresh seafood and of course Chilean wine.
Next to our hotel is the San Francisco Church which is the oldest structure in Santiago built in 1572. We were able to attend mass there this evening. Could not understand a word but the service was beautiful. Guitar music with beautiful voices with acoustics that filled the church. The church was built with large stones that have given this church the stability to withstand earthquakes.
We really like this city and a great day!