Chile's capital city, Santiago is a vibrant and sophisticated city, closely watched over the soaring peaks of the Andes. Around 40% of Chile’s population live here, bringing together a huge diversity of people, which is clearly expressed in the unique flavour of each of the city’s 32 neighbourhoods. Originally founded by conquistador Pedro de Valdivia in 1541, the city has a delightful mix of old and new architecture, varying from grand neo-classical and whimsical art nouveau to modernist glass skyscrapers. Add in a great cultural scene with plenty of excellent museums and galleries and you’ve got a city crying out to be explored.