The square is flanked by the San Marcos Cathedral, which was designed by the workshop of Gustave Eiffel and prefabricated in France before being transported to Arica in 1876.
The statue of Christopher Columbus (Cristóbal Colón) situated in the center was gifted to the city by the Italian immigrant community.
The plaza occupies land that was once part of the original colonial urban grid established during the Spanish administration.
The proximity to the Ex-Aduana building marks the historical importance of this square as the gateway for trade entering through the port of Arica.
The local microclimate is unique, as the plaza is maintained despite Arica being one of the driest cities in the world due to the influence of the Humboldt Current.
Plaza Cristobal Colón is the primary historic square in Arica, Chile, centered around a prominent statue of Christopher Columbus. The square serves as a focal point for the city's colonial architectural heritage, notably positioned adjacent to the San Marcos Cathedral and the Ex-Aduana building. The plaza features distinctive tropical landscaping, including palm trees and decorative gardens, adapted to the coastal desert climate. It functions as a communal hub for locals and serves as the starting point for walking tours of the historic city center. The square's layout emphasizes symmetry and colonial-era urban planning typical of northern Chilean regional capitals. It remains a key public space for city events and civic gatherings. The area connects directly to the coastal promenade and the nearby Morro de Arica hill access points.
The elevated vantage point facing the San Marcos Cathedral with the Christopher Columbus statue in the foreground.
Combine your visit with a walk to the nearby Morro de Arica for panoramic views of the coastline.
Visit the adjacent San Marcos Cathedral to view the specific iron-work architecture associated with the Eiffel legacy.
Observe the local pace of life in the evenings when the plaza becomes a hub for families and neighborhood social gatherings.
Do not leave personal belongings unattended on park benches, as the area can be busy with commuters and tourists.
