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Historic square · Punta Arenas, Magalhães e Antártica Chilena
Plaza Muñoz Gamero
Central square of Punta Arenas, surrounded by large houses from the wool era, with the monument to Fernão de Magalhães inaugurated in 1920 and cypresses planted in 1903.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Plaza Muñoz Gamero
Plaza Muñoz Gamero is the main square of Punta Arenas and the starting point for almost every city tour. The name honors Benjamín Muñoz Gamero, a governor killed in the Cambiaso mutiny in 1851. Since 1991 the square and its surroundings have been a Zona Típica, protected by the National Monuments Council.
In the center stands the monument to Fernão de Magalhães, the work of sculptor Guillermo Córdova, unveiled in 1920 for the 400th anniversary of the navigator's passage through the strait. At the feet of the Portuguese figure are representations of the region's indigenous people. A local tradition says that whoever touches the foot of one of them will return to Punta Arenas, and the worn bronze shows how many have done so.
Around the square, at the end of the 19th century, the homes of pioneers who made fortunes from sheep farming and maritime trade were built. The Palacio Sara Braun, designed by French architect Numa Meyer, occupies the corner of Bories and Waldo Seguel streets. The trees, including cypresses, poplars and other species, were planted in 1903.
A few blocks from the square are the shore of the Estreito de Magalhães and Cerro de la Cruz, a lookout over the city's colorful roofs and the sea.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
Half an hour at the square; one to two hours including the waterfront and Cerro de la Cruz.
Best time
During the day, preferably when it's sunny, when the facades show well. In summer the square is lively late into the evening, with craft fairs at times.
How to get there
It is in the center of Punta Arenas, between Plaza Muñoz Gamero, Bories, 21 de Mayo and Fagnano streets. Walkable from any central lodging; about 20 km from the airport.
Tip
Begin your orientation of the city here: the tourist information center is nearby. If the wind is strong, the cypresses in the square offer some shelter for photos.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Plaza Muñoz Gamero
What is the tradition of the Indian's foot at Plaza Muñoz Gamero?
Local tradition says that whoever touches the foot of one of the indigenous figures on the monument to Fernão de Magalhães will one day return to Punta Arenas. That's why the bronze is polished at that spot.
Who made the monument to Fernão de Magalhães?
The Chilean sculptor Guillermo Córdova, chosen in a public competition. The work was inaugurated in 1920.
What is around Plaza Muñoz Gamero?
Late-19th-century mansions, such as the Palacio Sara Braun, commercial buildings from the wool era and, a few blocks away, the waterfront of the Estreito de Magallanes.