Opened in 1913, the Estación Mapocho was for a long time the hub of rail traffic serving northern Chile, Valparaiso and Argentina. Built to celebrate the centennial of Chilean independence, the building's sentimental value led to it being declared a national monument in 1976. However, the demand for rail traffic to northern Chile was decreasing and in 1987 the building was decommissioned due to serious structural decay.
The building was repaired and restored by the beginning of 1994. Since rail traffic was no longer operating to its former destinations, the Estación Mapocho was turned into a cultural centre and is used primarily for art exhibits, musical performances, and conventions.
It is located on the south bank of the Mapocho River and close to the Mercado Central de Santiago. Puente Cal y Canto metro station is beneath the square in front of the station.
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