The churches of Chiloé were constructed from wood and boasted a tall central bell tower that rose majestically in a symmetrical design. These churches showed a vibrant brown hue supported by white cylindrical pillars. The most iconic feature of the churches is the front courtyard. A covered entrance supported by a row of wooden columns with rounded edges. The roofs were steeply pitched to allow rain to slide off easily. Small windows punctuate the side walls, while decorative crosses alongside the building showing religious significance of these buildings. Surrounding the church is a spacious courtyard, enclosed by a perimeter of trees.
Jesuits missionaries, Franciscans, Spaniards
Image 1: https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/971 Image 2, 3, & 4: https://www.nationalgeographic.com/travel/article/churches-of-chiloe-unesco-world-heritage
- 1610-1767 the Jesuits began building the churches part of the "circular missions". - 1767 Jesuits were expelled by Spanish territories. The Franciscans took over building and maintaining the church. -18th century wooden churches were constructed. -1991 restoration began to preserve historic buildings. -2000 16 of the churches were a UNESCO world heritage site.
- Chilota Style. ( A blend of European Jesuit Baroque and local indigenous craft ).
Chiloé archipelago, southern coast, Chile