Museo Histórico Casa Gabriel González Videla

La Serena


Although richly stocked with general historical artifacts, this two-story museum in an 18th-century mansion concentrates on one of La Serena's best-known (and most controversial) sons. González Videla was Chile's president from 1946 to 1952. Ever the cunning politician, he took power with communist support but then promptly outlawed the party, driving poet Pablo Neruda out of the Senate and into exile. Controversy aside, González Videla was the world's first head of state to visit Antarctica (in 1948).

Head upstairs for a look at curios from the past, including 19th-century drawings of La Serena, elaborate saddles and leather boxes, and some rather dangerous-looking drinking horns.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby La Serena attractions

1. Iglesia Santo Domingo

0.06 MILES

The dainty-looking bell tower of Iglesia Santo Domingo looks as though it should have a twirling ballerina inside. The tower is a later addition, only a…

2. Plaza de Armas

0.07 MILES

The heart of the colonial center is the palm-filled Plaza de Armas. The picturesque square makes a fine place for a stroll with a bit of people-watching…

3. Iglesia Catedral

0.12 MILES

The handsome neoclassical Iglesia Catedral dates from 1844; it also has a sobering museum of religious art.

4. Tribunales

0.13 MILES

Tribunales was built as a result of González Videla’s Plan Serena.

5. Municipalidad

0.13 MILES

Pop your head inside to check out photos of the city's past.

6. Jardín del Corazón

0.16 MILES

With its trickling brooks, drifting swans and neatly manicured rock gardens, this Japanese garden makes an idyllic escape from the city bustle. Don't miss…

7. Patio Colonial

0.19 MILES

Tucked off Balmaceda, this small, picturesque lane is dotted with shops and eateries. The patio in back feels like a secret getaway from the city-center…

8. Iglesia San Francisco

0.22 MILES

The granddaddy of all La Serena's churches is a colonial marvel, two blocks southeast of the plaza and built in the early 1600s. It's a stone construction…