About Baha'i Temple of South America, Santiago
The Baha'i House of Worship for South America opened in 2016 in the foothills of the Andes above Santiago. Designed by Siamak Hariri, its nine translucent wings of cast glass and Portuguese marble seem to glow from within, shifting color through the day like a flower opening toward the light. The temple took years of engineering, with each glass panel cast by hand, and it has received major international architecture awards for its design and craftsmanship.
As in all Baha'i temples, the central space is open to people of every faith and none, with readings from many scriptures and no clergy or sermons. Gardens and reflecting pools surround the building, and the terrace looks over the whole city. Sunset is a particularly peaceful time to visit. Visitors from around the continent come to pray, reflect or simply admire the light. It is one of the most peaceful places in Santiago, open to everyone in a spirit of unity.
What to see
- Nine glass and marble wings
- Interior oculus
- Reflecting pools
- Views over Santiago
- Visitor center
Visiting Baha'i Temple of South America, Santiago: practical guide
- Best time
- September to April
- Hours
- Open Tuesday to Sunday; check seasonal hours
- Entry
- Free
- Dress code
- Respectful clothing
- Nearest airport
- Arturo Merino Benitez International Airport (SCL), 30 km
Tips from experienced pilgrims
- Take a taxi or ride share up the hill
- Silence is kept inside
- Go near sunset for city views
Festivals and special days
- Naw-Ruz, Baha'i New Year (around 20 March)
Etiquette for visitors
Guidance drawn from Bahá'í Faith tradition. Always follow signs and local custodians.
- Dress modestly when visiting shrines and Houses of Worship.
- Remove shoes before entering the shrines in Haifa and Acre.
- Keep silent inside Houses of Worship, which are reserved for prayer and reading.
- Photography inside the shrines is not permitted.
- Book guided tours of the Haifa gardens in advance where possible.
- Do not bring food or drink into the gardens.
Location map
Open in OpenStreetMap · Get directions
Frequently asked questions
Where is Baha'i Temple of South America, Santiago?
Baha'i Temple of South America, Santiago is in Penalolen, Santiago Metropolitan, Chile, South America. GPS coordinates: -33.4718, -70.5097. The nearest airport is Arturo Merino Benitez International Airport (SCL), 30 km.
What is the best time to visit Baha'i Temple of South America, Santiago?
September to April
Is there an entry fee for Baha'i Temple of South America, Santiago?
Free Opening hours: Open Tuesday to Sunday; check seasonal hours
What should I wear when visiting Baha'i Temple of South America, Santiago?
Respectful clothing
Which religion is Baha'i Temple of South America, Santiago sacred to?
Baha'i Temple of South America, Santiago is sacred to Bahá'í Faith. Active place of worship.
