The house suffered significant damage during the 1973 coup, as it was a site of resistance and protected political refugees.
The name 'La Chascona' is a Quechua-derived term used in Chile to describe a woman with unruly, tangled hair.
Neruda incorporated a bar shaped like a boat prow into the design of the living room.
The house features a 'secret' dining room originally intended to keep the poet's affair with Matilde hidden from his then-wife.
A life-sized portrait of Matilde Urrutia painted by Diego Rivera contains a hidden profile of Neruda within her hair.
The house was constructed in stages, with the bedroom and bath added only after Neruda and Matilde could openly live together.
The interior contains a library filled with rare first editions and books salvaged after the military raid.
La Chascona is the former Santiago residence of Chilean poet and Nobel laureate Pablo Neruda, located at the base of San Cristóbal Hill. Designed by the poet for his secret lover and future wife Matilde Urrutia, the house takes its name from her wild, red hair. The structure is built into the hillside in successive levels, featuring a nautical architectural style that reflects Neruda’s obsession with the sea. Following the 1973 military coup, the house was vandalized and flooded, but subsequently restored to its original state. The museum preserves the poet's extensive collection of personal belongings, including eccentric international artifacts and maritime memorabilia. A portrait of Matilde Urrutia by Diego Rivera is housed within the residence. The grounds are lush and terraced, separating the living areas from the hillside forest. It remains one of three houses managed by the Fundación Pablo Neruda, alongside Isla Negra and La Sebastiana.
The garden terrace overlooking the house structure and the entrance signage.
The audio guide is included with admission and provides essential context regarding the house's history and architectural layout.
The climb from the entrance to the house involves steep stone stairs, so wear supportive footwear.
Allocate time to explore the garden, which contains native plants and sculptures not found in the main interior exhibit.
Avoid visiting on Mondays, as the museum is closed.
Closed on Mondays.
Photography inside the house is often restricted; follow signs carefully. Do not touch furniture or display items.
