Churches of Chiloé

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 the Chiloé Archipelago's humid and rainy oceanic climate.

Churches of Chiloé

UNESCO World Heritage Site
Saint Mary Church (Iglesia Santa María) in Achao
Location	Chiloé Archipelago, Chile
Includes	Church of Santa María de Loreto, Achao Church of Quinchao Church of San Francisco, Castro Church of Rilán Church of Nercón Church of Aldachildo Church of Ichuac Church of Detif Church of Vilupulli Church of Chonchi Church of Tenaún Church of Colo Church of San Juan Bautista, Dalcahue Church of Our Lady of Sorrows, Dalcahue Church of Chelín Church of Caguach
Criteria	Cultural: ii, iii
Reference	971
Inscription	2000 (24th Session)
Coordinates	42°30′0″S 73°46′0″W
Location of Churches of Chiloé in Chile

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 Spanish Jesuit culture and local native population's skill and traditions; an excellent example of mestizo culture.

The Churches of Chiloé were designated UNESCO World Heritage Sites in 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.[1]