Where to go on the weekend in Chile for budget-friendly adventures in spring?
🌟 Bahá’í Temple of South America in Chile: The “Temple of Light” in the Andes, the Ultimate Pilgrimage for Niche Travelers
Nestled at the foot of the majestic Andes, just east of Santiago, a futuristic marvel quietly emerges—the Bahá’í Temple of South America (Templo Bahá’í de Sudamérica). This spiritual sanctuary, which took 14 years to construct, is not only a beacon for Bahá’í followers around the globe but also a coveted backdrop for Instagram-worthy travel photos, thanks to its breathtaking architectural beauty and profound philosophical significance.
Whether you are an architecture aficionado, a photography enthusiast, or a traveler in search of inner peace, this place will leave you in awe: “Religious architecture can be like this!”
1. “Sky Mirror” Reflection Pool
The mirror pool in front of the temple is a must-see! On sunny days, the nine curved glass facades and the snow-capped peaks behind them create a mesmerizing double reflection, making it a perfect spot for capturing stunning photos.
2. “Dance of Light” Under the Dome
Step into the prayer hall and gaze up at the 30-meter-high translucent dome. Sunlight filters through 1,129 pieces of snowflake-patterned glass, casting a celestial glow. Sit cross-legged in the center and take a wide-angle shot looking up, and you’ll feel as if you’ve been “chosen by the universe.”
3. Secret Garden Labyrinth
Designed by Chilean landscape master Juan Grimm, the native plant garden is a serene oasis featuring over 6,000 indigenous Quillay trees and wildflowers, creating a tranquil and natural environment.
🔮 Design That Defies Imagination: When Architecture Learns to “Spin”
The inspiration for this temple comes from the mystical dance of the Sufis, where believers connect with the divine through spinning. Canadian architect Siamak Hariri translated this concept into architectural form:
– Nine Glass “Wings”: Each weighing 9 tons, these borosilicate glass panels are cast at high temperatures to form a snowflake crystal texture.
They are meticulously pieced together to form a spiraling dome, resembling a half-open lotus from afar.
🌌 Experience Guide: How to Visit Like a Local
– Moments of Silent Meditation
Take off your shoes and sit on the walnut wood curved benches. There are no idols, rituals, or sermons, only the gentle sound of the wind passing through the dome’s circular openings. Locals believe that sitting here for 20 minutes can make you feel the “light flowing on your skin.
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🚗 – Transportation Tips: It takes about an hour by taxi from downtown Santiago, or take the metro to Los Dominicos station and transfer to bus D11 to reach the destination directly.
📍 Location
Pie Andino, Santiago, Región Metropolitana, Chile
🎫 Admission
Free! But please remain quiet and set your phone to silent mode.
The existence of this temple seems to remind us: true sanctity does not require elaborate decoration. When sunlight penetrates the glass wings and casts delicate spots of light on your fingertips, you will suddenly understand the Bahá’í teaching—”The earth is but one country, and mankind its citizens.
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Easter Egg: On your way back on D11, make a delightful stop at the Dominican Craft Market. Indulge in a traditional pastel de choclo and savor some mouthwatering Chilean-style 🇨🇱 braised beef. Find a cozy spot on the grass, lie back, and gaze at the sky while observing the bustling world around you. Moments like these make you fall in love with our beautiful planet all over again 🌎
