Chullos Travel

The history of Plaza Colón in Arica is closely intertwined with the city’s own history and the arrival of the Spanish in the region. Here’s a summary:

Colonial era and foundation: Arica was founded by the Spanish in 1541 as a strategic port on the route between Peru and Chile. During these early times, the plaza that we now know as Plaza Colón was a central space in the city, although much more modest than what we see today.
Renewal in the 19th century: During the 19th century, with the boom in trade and the construction of the customs house, the plaza began to gain greater urban and social importance. It was during this time that it was named Plaza Colón in honor of the explorer Christopher Columbus.
Urban development: Over the years, Plaza Colón has witnessed various historical events and urban changes in Arica. It has been a venue for celebrations, civic and cultural events, and has been remodeled several times to meet the changing needs of the city.
1868 Earthquake: An important milestone in the history of Arica and the plaza was the earthquake and subsequent tsunami in 1868, which devastated the city and led to the reconstruction of many of its buildings, including those around the plaza.
20th century and today: In the 20th century, Plaza Colón has continued to be a meeting point for the Arica community and an important place for the city’s social and cultural life. It has been renovated and restored several times to preserve its historical value and improve its functionality as a public space.

In summary, Plaza Colón in Arica is not just a physical space in the city center but also a place steeped in history that reflects the urban and cultural evolution of Arica over the centuries.

What did we find in Plaza Colon?

In Plaza Colón in Arica, you can find several attractions and elements that make it a point of interest for both residents and visitors:

Monument to Christopher Columbus: At the center of the plaza stands a monument dedicated to the explorer Christopher Columbus, after whom the plaza is named. This monument is typically a statue or an obelisk commemorating his arrival in the Americas.
Green spaces and resting areas: The plaza is surrounded by landscaped gardens and benches where people can rest and enjoy the surroundings.
Historic buildings: Nearby, there are historic buildings such as the Cathedral of San Marcos de Arica, which is a significant landmark in the city’s architectural heritage.
Cultural and social events: Plaza Colón hosts various cultural, social, and civic events throughout the year, including concerts, festivals, and community activities.
Shops and restaurants: Adjacent to the plaza, there are numerous shops, cafes, and restaurants where visitors can enjoy local cuisine and shopping.
Access to the coastline: Due to its central location, Plaza Colón provides easy and close access to Arica’s coastline, offering views of the sea and opportunities for beach-related activities.

In summary, Plaza Colón is not only a historical and cultural space but also a vibrant and active hub that plays an integral role in the daily life and social fabric of Arica.

plaza colon

How to get to Plaza Colon?

To get to Plaza Colón in Arica, you can follow these directions depending on your starting point:

From Arica Bus Terminal: If you arrive in Arica by bus, you can take a taxi or walk approximately 15-20 minutes southwest along Avenida Diego Portales. This avenue will lead you directly towards the city center, where Plaza Colón is located near the intersection with Avenida Baquedano.
From Chacalluta International Airport: If you arrive by plane, the most convenient option is to take a taxi or a shuttle service from the airport to downtown Arica. The journey takes approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. Once in the center, head towards the intersection of Avenida 21 de Mayo and Baquedano, where Plaza Colón is situated.
By private vehicle: If you’re driving from within Arica, head towards the city center via Avenida Diego Portales or Avenida 18 de Septiembre, depending on your starting location. Both avenues will lead you to the center, where you can easily reach Plaza Colón.
Public transportation: Arica has a public transportation system connecting various parts of the city. You can take a microbus (shared taxi) that goes towards downtown Arica and then walk to Plaza Colón from the nearest stop.

Once at Plaza Colón, you can enjoy its historical, cultural, and social ambiance, as well as explore nearby landmarks, historic buildings, and dining options.

Recommendations for visiting Plaza Colon

If you’re planning to visit Plaza Colón in Arica, here are some recommendations to make the most of your visit:

Opening hours and weather: Ensure you visit during the day when the plaza is lively and you can enjoy any activities or events that may be taking place. Arica has a mostly warm and dry climate year-round, so protect yourself from the sun and carry water with you.
Explore the surroundings: Besides the plaza itself, explore the nearby area where you’ll find the Cathedral of San Marcos de Arica and other historic buildings. The plaza is also close to the coastline, so take a stroll in the area and enjoy the sea views.
Visit the monument to Christopher Columbus: The central monument in the plaza is dedicated to Christopher Columbus. Take some time to appreciate it and learn more about its history and significance.
Enjoy local cuisine: There are several restaurants and cafes near Plaza Colón where you can try typical regional dishes such as fresh seafood or traditional Chilean cuisine.
Attend cultural events: Check the local calendar for cultural events, music performances, or festivals that may be scheduled at the plaza. It’s a great way to experience the social and cultural life of Arica.
Respect the environment: Like any public space, respect the rules and the peaceful atmosphere of the plaza. Help keep it clean and enjoy the relaxing environment it offers.
Safety: Arica is generally safe for tourists, but it’s always wise to be mindful of your belongings and follow usual precautions in crowded areas.

By following these recommendations, you’ll have a pleasant and enriching visit to Plaza Colón, immersing yourself in the history, culture, and local life of Arica.