Churches of Chiloé
| Churches of Chiloé | |
|---|---|
| Name as inscribed on the World Heritage List | |
 Saint Mary Church (Iglesia Santa María) in Achao |
|
| Location | Chile |
| Type | Cultural |
| Criteria | ii, iii |
| Reference | 971 |
| UNESCO region | Latin America and the Caribbean |
| Inscription history | |
| Inscription | 2000 (24th Session) |
The Churches of Chiloé in Chile's Chiloé Archipelago are a unique architectural phenomenon in the Americas, and one of the most prominent styles of Chilota architecture. Unlike classical Spanish colonial architecture, the churches of Chiloé are made entirely in native timber with extensive use of wood shingles. The churches were built from materials to resist Chiloé Archipelago's humid and rainy oceanic climate.
Built in the 18th and 19th centuries when Chiloé Archipelago was still a part of the Spanish Crown possessions, the churches represent the fusion of European Jesuit culture and local native peoples' skill and traditions: an excellent example of mestizo culture.
The Churches of Chiloé were designated UNESCO World Heritage Sites since 2000. The University of Chile, Fundación Cultural Iglesias de Chiloé and other institutions have led efforts to preserve these historic structures and to publicize them for their unique qualities.
The sixteen churches registered as part of the World Heritage Site are concentrated in the central eastern zone of the archipelago.
Interior of the Church of Achao
Nave of the Saint Mary Church in Achao
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