What did Pedro de Valdivia name the city of Santiago when it was founded in 1541?
- Santiago del Nuevo Extremo
- Santiago de Chile
- Santiago de la Nueva Extremadura
- Nueva Extremadura
Correct Answer: Santiago del Nuevo Extremo
Correct Answer Explanation: Pedro de Valdivia, a Spanish conquistador, founded the city of Santiago in 1541. He named it “Santiago del Nuevo Extremo” or “Santiago of New Extremadura” in reference to the territory he intended to colonize. The name “Extremadura” referred to his home region of Spain. The name was eventually shortened to Santiago and to differentiate it from other cities named Santiago, it is often referred to as “Santiago de Chile.”
Which of the following is the highest mountain visible from Santiago’s urban area?
- Cerro de Ramón
- Cerro El Plomo
- Tupungato
- Tupungatito
Correct Answer: Cerro El Plomo
Correct Answer Explanation: Cerro El Plomo is the highest mountain visible from Santiago’s urban area, standing at a height of 5,360 meters (17,585 feet). It is part of the Andes mountain range, which flanks Santiago to the east.
Santiago’s climate is classified as what type?
- Tropical Rainforest
- Mediterranean
- Hot Desert
- Cool Semi-arid
Correct Answer: Cool Semi-arid
Correct Answer Explanation: Santiago has a cool semi-arid climate (BSk) with Mediterranean (Csb) patterns, meaning that it has warm dry summers and cool, wet winters. While most of the city has a cool semi-arid climate, the areas closer to the mountains have a true Mediterranean climate (Csb).
What is Santiago’s second tallest building?
- Gran Torre Santiago
- Titanium La Portada
- Edificio Diego Portales
- Torre Entel
Correct Answer: Titanium La Portada
Correct Answer Explanation: Titanium La Portada is the second tallest building in Santiago, standing at a height of 190 meters (623 feet). The tallest building in Santiago is the Gran Torre Santiago, which is part of the Costanera Center complex.
Which of these major universities is NOT located in Santiago?
- Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile (PUC)
- Universidad de Chile
- Universidad de los Andes
- Universidad de Concepción
Correct Answer: Universidad de Concepción
Correct Answer Explanation: Universidad de Concepción, despite its name, is not located in Santiago. It is located in the city of Concepción, in the Bío-Bío Region of Chile.
What is the name of the transportation system in Santiago, Chile?
- Metro de Santiago
- Transantiago
- Red
- All of the above
Correct Answer: All of the above
Correct Answer Explanation: Santiago, Chile has a comprehensive transportation system that includes a subway, bus system, and commuter rail system. The subway is called the Metro de Santiago, the bus system is called Transantiago, and the recently launched system is called Red. These systems all work together to create an integrated network.
Which of these football teams is NOT based in Santiago?
- Colo-Colo
- Universidad de Chile
- Club Deportivo Universidad Católica (UC)
- Audax Italiano
- Unión La Calera
Correct Answer: Unión La Calera
Correct Answer Explanation: Unión La Calera is a football club based in the city of La Calera, in the Valparaíso Region of Chile.
What is the name of the largest park in Santiago?
- Parque Bicentenario
- O’Higgins Park
- Santiago Metropolitan Park
- Parque Forestal
Correct Answer: Santiago Metropolitan Park
Correct Answer Explanation: Santiago Metropolitan Park is the largest park in Santiago, covering an area of 150 hectares (370 acres). It is located on the slopes of Cerro San Cristóbal and includes the Chilean National Zoo, the Santiago Cable Car, and other attractions.
What is the name of the most famous street for shopping in Santiago?
- Alameda Avenue
- Alonso de Cordova
- Providencia Avenue
- Ahumada Street
Correct Answer: Alonso de Cordova
Correct Answer Explanation: Alonso de Cordova is considered Santiago’s most famous street for shopping. It is located in the eastern communes of Vitacura, La Dehesa, and Las Condes.
Which of these events has NOT been hosted in Santiago?
- FIFA World Cup Final
- Pan American Games
- Special Olympics World Summer Games
- FIA Formula E Championship
Correct Answer: FIFA World Cup Final
Correct Answer Explanation: The FIFA World Cup Final has never been hosted in Santiago, Chile. Santiago has hosted the 1962 FIFA World Cup, but the final was held in the Maracanã Stadium in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
What is the name of Santiago’s main square?
- Plaza de la Ciudadanía
- Plaza Baquedano
- Plaza de Armas
- Montt Square
Correct Answer: Plaza de Armas
Correct Answer Explanation: Plaza de Armas is the main square of Santiago. It is located in the heart of the city and is surrounded by several important buildings, including the Metropolitan Cathedral, the Palacio de la Real Audiencia, and the Central Post Office.
Which of these events takes place every January in Santiago?
- Santiago a Mil Theatre Festival
- Lollapalooza
- Maquinaria Festival
- Santiago Marathon
Correct Answer: Santiago a Mil Theatre Festival
Correct Answer Explanation: The Santiago a Mil Theatre Festival is an annual international theatre festival that takes place every January in Santiago. The festival features performances by theatre companies from around the world.
Which of the following is NOT a reason that Santiago has a serious air pollution problem?
- El Teniente copper mine smelter
- Thermal inversion
- High volume of automobiles
- Lack of mountains surrounding the city
Correct Answer: Lack of mountains surrounding the city
Correct Answer Explanation: Santiago is actually surrounded by mountains. While these mountains can contribute to thermal inversions which trap pollutants, their presence does not cause air pollution.
What is the name of the organization that administers the national museums in Chile?
- The National Monuments Council
- The National Statistics Bureau
- The Directorate of Libraries, Archives, and Museums
- The Chilean Ministry of Culture
Correct Answer: The Directorate of Libraries, Archives, and Museums
Correct Answer Explanation: The Directorate of Libraries, Archives, and Museums (DIBAM) is the organization that administers the national museums in Chile. It is a government agency that is responsible for preserving and promoting the country’s cultural heritage.
Which of these neighborhoods is known for its nightlife, restaurants, and cafes?
- Barrio Bellavista
- Barrio Lastarria
- Barrio París-Londres
- All of the above
Correct Answer: All of the above
Correct Answer Explanation: Barrio Bellavista, Barrio Lastarria, and Barrio París-Londres are all known for their nightlife, restaurants, and cafes.
Which of these is NOT a major sports venue in Santiago?
- Estadio Nacional
- Estadio Monumental David Arellano
- Estadio San Carlos de Apoquindo
- Estadio Maracanã
Correct Answer: Estadio Maracanã
Correct Answer Explanation: The Estadio Maracanã is located in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. It is home to the Brazilian national football team.
Who is the current Governor of the Santiago Metropolitan Region?
- Augusto Pinochet
- Sebastián Piñera
- Ricardo Raineri
- Claudio Orrego
Correct Answer: Claudio Orrego
Correct Answer Explanation: Claudio Orrego is the current Governor of the Santiago Metropolitan Region. He was elected to the position in 2017.
What is the name of the system used for public transport payments in Santiago?
- “Bip!”
- “Transantiago”
- “Red”
- “Metro”
Correct Answer: “Bip!”
Correct Answer Explanation: “Bip!” is the name of the contactless smartcard used for public transport payments in Santiago, Chile. The card can be used on the Metro de Santiago, Transantiago buses, and Metrotren commuter trains.
What is the name of the avenue that acts as a ring road in Santiago?
- Alameda Avenue
- Providencia Avenue
- Américo Vespucio Avenue
- Apoquindo Avenue
Correct Answer: Américo Vespucio Avenue
Correct Answer Explanation: Américo Vespucio Avenue is a ring road that encircles Santiago, connecting the different parts of the city.
What is the name of the neighborhood in Santiago that is known for its high concentration of high-rise buildings?
- Barrio Alto
- Barrio Bellavista
- Barrio Lastarria
- Barrio París-Londres
Correct Answer: Barrio Alto
Correct Answer Explanation: Barrio Alto is located in the eastern part of Santiago and is known for its high concentration of high-rise buildings. It is also home to many businesses, shops, and restaurants.
What is the name of the oldest churchhouse in Santiago?
- The Metropolitan Cathedral
- The San Francisco Church
- The Santo Domingo Church
- The Church of the Assumption
Correct Answer: The San Francisco Church
Correct Answer Explanation: The San Francisco Church is the oldest church in Santiago, having been constructed between 1586 and 1628.
What is the name of the street that leads toward the Santiago Stock Exchange?
- Alameda Avenue
- Bandera Street
- Providencia Avenue
- Apoquindo Avenue
Correct Answer: Bandera Street
Correct Answer Explanation: Bandera Street is a major street in downtown Santiago that leads toward the Santiago Stock Exchange, also known as the Bolsa de Comercio.
What is the name of the hill in Santiago that has a statue of the Virgin Mary on its summit?
- Cerro Santa Lucía
- Cerro San Cristóbal
- Cerro Renca
- Cerro Blanco
Correct Answer: Cerro San Cristóbal
Correct Answer Explanation: Cerro San Cristóbal is a hill in Santiago that is home to a large statue of the Virgin Mary. The statue is visible from many parts of the city.
What is the name of the city that hosts the Santiago a Mil Theatre Festival?
- Valparaíso
- Concepción
- Santiago
- Viña del Mar
Correct Answer: Santiago
Correct Answer Explanation: The Santiago a Mil Theatre Festival is an annual event held in the city of Santiago, Chile. It attracts theatre companies from all over the world and is a major cultural event in the city.
What is the name of the famous amusement park located in Santiago?
- Parque Arauco
- Fantasilandia
- Parque Metropolitano
- Parque Bicentenario
Correct Answer: Fantasilandia
Correct Answer Explanation: Fantasilandia is a popular amusement park located in Santiago. It features a variety of rides, games, and attractions for people of all ages.
What is the name of the public broadcaster in Santiago?
- Canal 13
- Chilevisión
- TVN
- Mega
Correct Answer: TVN
Correct Answer Explanation: TVN is the public broadcaster in Santiago. It is one of the largest and most popular television networks in Chile.
What is the name of the oldest and most traditional jazz club in Santiago?
- “El Perseguidor”
- “Thelonious”
- “Le Fournil Jazz Club”
- “Club de Jazz de Santiago”
Correct Answer: “Club de Jazz de Santiago”
Correct Answer Explanation: “Club de Jazz de Santiago” is the oldest and most traditional jazz club in Santiago. It has been a popular spot for jazz music lovers for many years.
What is the name of the organization responsible for the public transport system called Transantiago?
- The Santiago Metropolitan Region
- The Ministry of Transportation
- The Ministry of Housing and Urbanism
- The Metropolitan Transit Authority
Correct Answer: The Metropolitan Transit Authority
Correct Answer Explanation: The Metropolitan Transit Authority, known as the “Red Metropolitana de Movilidad” is responsible for managing the Transantiago public transport system. The government agency was established in 2005 to address the problems of the previous bus system.
Which of these events is NOT a regular cultural event held in Santiago?
- Lollapalooza
- Maquinaria Festival
- The Santiago Marathon
- The Carnival of Rio
Correct Answer: The Carnival of Rio
Correct Answer Explanation: The Carnival of Rio is a famous event held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. While it is a popular tourist attraction, it is not a regular event held in Santiago.
Which of the following is NOT a commune in the Santiago Metropolitan Region?
- Las Condes
- Lo Barnechea
- Vitacura
- Concepción
Correct Answer: Concepción
Correct Answer Explanation: Concepción is a city located in the Bío-Bío Region of Chile. It is not part of the Santiago Metropolitan Region.
What is the name of the highway that runs alongside the Mapocho River?
- Costanera Norte
- Autopista Central
- Vespucio Norte
- Vespucio Sur
Correct Answer: Costanera Norte
Correct Answer Explanation: Costanera Norte is a major highway in Santiago that runs alongside the Mapocho River.
What is the name of the mountain range that flanks Santiago to the east?
- The Chilean Coastal Range
- The Andes Mountains
- The Sierra de Ramón
- The Cordón de Chacabuco
Correct Answer: The Andes Mountains
Correct Answer Explanation: The Andes Mountains are a major mountain range that runs along the western coast of South America. The Andes Mountains flank Santiago to the east.
What is the name of the organization that manages the Santiago Metro?
- EFE
- Metro de Santiago
- Transantiago
- Red
Correct Answer: Metro de Santiago
Correct Answer Explanation: Metro de Santiago is the organization responsible for managing the Santiago Metro system. It is a government-owned and operated company.
What is the name of the main street in Santiago that runs northeast and southwest?
- Bandera Street
- Providencia Avenue
- Américo Vespucio Avenue
- Alameda Avenue
Correct Answer: Alameda Avenue
Correct Answer Explanation: Alameda Avenue, also known as the Avenida Libertador General Bernardo O’Higgins, is the main street in Santiago. It runs for about 10 kilometers and is a major thoroughfare for traffic and pedestrians.
What is the name of the university that is the largest and one of the oldest in the Americas?
- Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile (PUC)
- Universidad de Chile
- Universidad de los Andes
- Universidad de Concepción
Correct Answer: Universidad de Chile
Correct Answer Explanation: Universidad de Chile is the largest and one of the oldest universities in the Americas. It was founded in 1622 and has a long and distinguished history.
Which of these is NOT a major museum in Santiago?
- The National Museum of Fine Arts
- The Museum of Memory and Human Rights
- The Museum of Pre-Columbian Art
- The Metropolitan Museum of Art
Correct Answer: The Metropolitan Museum of Art
Correct Answer Explanation: The Metropolitan Museum of Art is located in New York City, USA. It is one of the most famous art museums in the world.
What is the name of the street in Santiago that has a high concentration of exclusive stores, art galleries, and restaurants?
- Alameda Avenue
- Providencia Avenue
- Alonso de Cordova
- Bandera Street
Correct Answer: Alonso de Cordova
Correct Answer Explanation: Alonso de Cordova is a high-end street in Santiago with a concentration of exclusive stores, art galleries, restaurants, and other upscale businesses.
What is the name of the ski resort that is located to the east of Santiago?
- Valle Nevado
- La Parva
- El Colorado
- All of the above
Correct Answer: All of the above
Correct Answer Explanation: Valle Nevado, La Parva, and El Colorado are all popular ski resorts located to the east of Santiago.
Which of these events was held in Santiago in 2010?
- The FIFA World Cup Final
- The Pan American Games
- The Special Olympics World Summer Games
- A powerful earthquake
Correct Answer: A powerful earthquake
Correct Answer Explanation: In 2010, a powerful earthquake struck Santiago and other parts of Chile. It caused significant damage and loss of life.
What is the name of the Chilean folk artist who has a museum dedicated to her in Santiago?
- Violeta Parra
- Gabriela Mistral
- Pablo Neruda
- Isabel Allende
Correct Answer: Violeta Parra
Correct Answer Explanation: Violeta Parra was a famous Chilean folk artist who is considered a national treasure in Chile. The Museo Violeta Parra is dedicated to her life and work.
What is the name of the large, modern shopping mall that is part of the Costanera Center complex?
- Parque Arauco
- Alto Las Condes
- Mall Plaza
- Costanera Center
Correct Answer: Costanera Center
Correct Answer Explanation: The Costanera Center is a large, modern shopping mall that is part of the Costanera Center complex. It is located in the financial district of Santiago.
What is the name of the major highway that crosses Santiago from north to south?
- Autopista Central
- Costanera Norte
- Vespucio Norte
- Vespucio Sur
Correct Answer: Autopista Central
Correct Answer Explanation: Autopista Central is a major highway that crosses Santiago from north to south. It is part of the Pan-American Highway and connects Santiago to other cities in Chile.
Which of these buildings is NOT located in downtown Santiago?
- The Metropolitan Cathedral
- The Palacio de La Moneda
- The National Museum of Fine Arts
- The Museum of Contemporary Art
Correct Answer: The Museum of Contemporary Art
Correct Answer Explanation: The Museum of Contemporary Art is located in the Quinta Normal Park, which is not in downtown Santiago.
What is the name of the railway station in Santiago that was designed by Gustave Eiffel?
- Estación Central de Santiago
- Mapocho Station
- Los Héroes Station
- Baquedano Station
Correct Answer: Estación Central de Santiago
Correct Answer Explanation: Estación Central de Santiago, also known as the Central Station of Santiago, was designed by the famous French engineer Gustave Eiffel. It is a major railway station in Santiago that connects to other cities in Chile.
Which of these is NOT a common transportation option in Santiago?
- Taxi
- Bus
- Train
- Tram
Correct Answer: Tram
Correct Answer Explanation: While trams were once a common form of transport in Santiago, they are no longer in use. They were last used in the city in the 1950s and were replaced by buses.
What is the name of the river that flows through Santiago?
- The Rio Maipo
- The Rio Aconcagua
- The Rio Bio Bio
- The Rio Mapocho
Correct Answer: The Rio Mapocho
Correct Answer Explanation: The Rio Mapocho is the river that flows through Santiago. It is a major source of water for the city and is a popular spot for recreation.
What is the name of the neighborhood in Santiago that is known for its bohemian atmosphere?
- Barrio Alto
- Barrio Bellavista
- Barrio Lastarria
- Barrio París-Londres
Correct Answer: Barrio Bellavista
Correct Answer Explanation: Barrio Bellavista is known for its bohemian atmosphere, with many art galleries, cafes, bars, and restaurants.
What is the name of the hill in Santiago that is known for its fortifications?
- Cerro San Cristóbal
- Cerro Santa Lucía
- Cerro Renca
- Cerro Blanco
Correct Answer: Cerro Santa Lucía
Correct Answer Explanation: Cerro Santa Lucía is a hill in Santiago that is known for its fortifications. It was once a strategic location for the Spanish and is now a popular tourist destination.
What is the name of the avenue in Santiago that is considered to be one of the most important commercial hubs?
- Alameda Avenue
- Providencia Avenue
- Alonso de Cordova
- Bandera Street
Correct Answer: Providencia Avenue
Correct Answer Explanation: Providencia Avenue is a major street in Santiago that is considered to be one of the most important commercial hubs. It has many shops, restaurants, and businesses.
What is the name of the official language spoken in Santiago?
- Mapuche
- Spanish
- English
- French
Correct Answer: Spanish
Correct Answer Explanation: Spanish is the official language spoken in Santiago, as it is the official language of Chile. While other languages are spoken in Santiago, such as English and French, Spanish is the most prevalent.
What is the name of the large public park located in the center of Santiago?
- Parque Forestal
- O’Higgins Park
- Quinta Normal Park
- Parque Bicentenario
Correct Answer: Parque Forestal
Correct Answer Explanation: Parque Forestal is a large public park located in the center of Santiago. It is a popular spot for recreation, with many gardens, paths, and statues.
What is the name of the Chilean national football team?
- La Roja
- Colo-Colo
- Universidad de Chile
- Club Deportivo Universidad Católica (UC)
Correct Answer: La Roja
Correct Answer Explanation: La Roja is the nickname for the Chilean national football team. It is a popular team that has a large fan base in Chile and around the world.
What is the name of the main football stadium in Santiago?
- Estadio Monumental David Arellano
- Estadio Nacional
- Estadio San Carlos de Apoquindo
- Estadio Santa Laura
Correct Answer: Estadio Nacional
Correct Answer Explanation: Estadio Nacional is the main football stadium in Santiago. It is a multi-purpose stadium that has hosted many major sporting events, including the 1962 FIFA World Cup final.
What is the name of the Chilean national airline?
- LATAM Airlines
- Sky Airline
- Aerocardal
- JetSmart
Correct Answer: LATAM Airlines
Correct Answer Explanation: LATAM Airlines is the Chilean national airline. It is one of the largest airlines in Latin America and operates flights to destinations around the world.