On the eve of Heritage Day, the iconic neighborhood in the República sector becomes the first neighborhood in the country to be recognized with the Marca Chile seal, standing out for its historical value, unique architecture and vibrant community life.
A few steps from the heart of Santiago, a curved street flanked by white houses and silent front gardens holds an architectural and social legacy that transcends time. It is the Conjunto Virginia Opazo, designed in 1944 by the renowned architect Luciano Kulczewski, recognized as a heritage area in 1992 and which today becomes the first neighborhood to obtain the Marca Chile seal, awarded by the Made By Chileans program, an initiative of the Fundación Imagen de Chile that highlights projects, products and spaces that represent the best of the country and contribute to projecting its image in the world.
Tradition steps away from the Alameda
The Marca Chile seal not only distinguishes quality or authenticity: it also recognizes that which connects with national identity. That is why Virginia Opazo's entry into the Made By Chileans program is a milestone. It is not a company or a traditional export, but a living neighborhood, with memory and projection, which shows how people live and coexist in Chile.
"We are proud to be the first community to be recognized by Marca Chile. We believe that this seal has enormous value and we appreciate it very much", says Cristian Pérez Inostroza, architect and president of the group of neighbors of the complex.
In this regard, he highlighted the diversity that exists in the iconic neighborhood: "It is a very diverse neighborhood. Eighty percent are homes for senior citizens, elderly people. We have kindergartens, religious congregations, offices and even a tattoo parlor. In other words, a little bit of everything. And that makes it more diverse, more lovable and more like the city is in reality, like the world is now".
Thus, the Conjunto Virginia Opazo is not only consolidated as a heritage landmark, but also as a true ambassador of Chilean life, from its history and architecture to its vibrant community life. A neighborhood made by Chileans, open to visitors, and which today proudly represents the country to the world.
An "instagrammable" place
The neighborhood's aesthetics have not gone unnoticed in the digital world. Its neoclassical style, its white chromatic unity and its urban serenity have made it the setting for advertising campaigns, video clips and content for social networks.
In this line, the good coexistence and organization among neighbors facilitates visits by non-residents. Alicia Castillo, owner of one of the houses said: "I have lived in this neighborhood for more than 45 years. We have lived through earthquakes, unusual snowfalls and celebrations together, such as Fiestas Patrias and Christmas, always keeping alive the tradition of gathering in the neighborhood square. For me, living here has been a blessing.
What is Made By Chileans?
Made By Chileans is a program of the Fundación Imagen de Chile that promotes and makes visible initiatives that contribute to strengthen the country's image within and beyond its borders. Through the use of the Marca Chile seal, the foundation supports those who show the best of our territory, our people and our way of doing things.
Until now, the seal has been awarded to products, enterprises and services with international projection. The incorporation of Virginia Opazo marks a precedent: for the first time, a heritage neighborhood is recognized as part of the story that Chile shares with the world.
Learn more about Made By Chileans and how to apply for your initiative here.
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