Discovering the Charm of La Serena

As soon as I set foot in La Serena, I was captivated by its neocolonial charm. The city, with its limestone churches and marble statues, felt like a living museum. Our first stop was the iconic Faro Monumental de La Serena. This lighthouse, standing tall since the early 1950s, is a beacon of history and culture. As I stood there, camera in hand, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of timelessness. The view of the Pacific Ocean crashing against the shore was nothing short of mesmerizing.

Next, we wandered through the Plaza de Armas, the heart of La Serena. The square was bustling with life, surrounded by buildings that whispered tales of the past. I took a moment to appreciate the architecture, each structure a testament to the city’s rich history. The nearby churches, some of the oldest in the region, added to the aura of antiquity. It was here that I felt the pulse of the city, a blend of the old and the new, coexisting in harmony.

A Taste of Local Culture

Our journey continued to the La Recova Municipal Market, a vibrant hub of local culture. The market was a sensory overload, with stalls brimming with colorful produce, handmade crafts, and the tantalizing aroma of local delicacies. I couldn’t resist sampling some of the local treats, each bite a burst of flavor that told a story of its own. The market was a microcosm of La Serena, a place where tradition and modernity met in a delightful dance.

The highlight of the day was undoubtedly the visit to the Museo Arqueologico de La Serena. Although the museum was closed on certain days, we were fortunate to explore its treasures. The exhibits, showcasing the Diaguita culture, were a fascinating glimpse into the region’s past. As a former city planner, I was particularly intrigued by the baroque portal, a relic from an old colonial house. It was a reminder of the city’s architectural evolution, a journey through time that I found utterly captivating.

Coquimbo’s Hidden Gems

Our adventure took us to Coquimbo, a city that enchanted with its tales of corsairs and pirates. The English Quarter, with its 19th-century architecture, was a delightful surprise. As I strolled through the cobblestone streets, I felt transported to another era. The buildings, with their distinct English style, stood as a testament to the city’s diverse heritage.

The Cruz Del Tercer Milenio was a sight to behold. This monumental cross, towering over the city, offered a panoramic view that was simply breathtaking. Standing at the viewpoint, I could see the vast expanse of Coquimbo and La Serena, a landscape that was both rugged and beautiful. It was a moment of reflection, a chance to appreciate the natural beauty that surrounded us.

Our final stop was the Fuerte Lambert, a relic from the 17th century. The fort, perched on the Punta de Pelícanos, was a reminder of the city’s maritime history. As I explored its ancient walls, I imagined the corsairs and galleons that once sailed these waters. It was a fitting end to a day filled with discovery and adventure, a journey through time that left me yearning for more.