Palacio Sara Braun
A historic neo-Renaissance mansion in Punta Arenas, offering a glimpse into the opulent life of Sara Braun and the region's past.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Catch the golden hour glow
Palacio Sara Braun
Best Time
Catch the golden hour glow
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic neo-Renaissance mansion in Punta Arenas, offering a glimpse into the opulent life of Sara Braun and the region's past.
"A beautiful mini palace in the centre of Punta Arenas, enjoyed for its decor and history."
🎯 Check Opening Hours
Arrive before closing to fully enjoy the museum's charm. :clock1:
💰 Fair Admission Fee
Expect a small entrance fee, often a thoughtful gesture for all visitors. :moneybag:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Elegant Room Decor
Interior rooms
Admire the preserved room decor, intricate ceilings, and art objects that transport you to the early 1900s.
The Story of Sara Braun
Exhibition areas
Learn about the fascinating life of Sara Braun and her impact on Punta Arenas' history.
Bar Shackleton
Basement
Experience the unique atmosphere of the bar and restaurant in the palace's basement, a perfect complement to your visit.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit
Understanding the Space
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Check Opening Hours
Arrive before closing to fully enjoy the museum's charm.
:clock1:💰 Fair Admission Fee
Expect a small entrance fee, often a thoughtful gesture for all visitors.
:moneybag:📸 Capture the Ambiance
The palace's interiors offer a unique backdrop for photos.
:camerawithflash:🍸 Visit Bar Shackleton
Don't miss the atmospheric bar in the basement for a drink.
:cocktail:Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Check Opening Hours
Arrive before closing to fully enjoy the museum's charm.
:clock1:💰 Fair Admission Fee
Expect a small entrance fee, often a thoughtful gesture for all visitors.
:moneybag:📸 Capture the Ambiance
The palace's interiors offer a unique backdrop for photos.
:camerawithflash:🍸 Visit Bar Shackleton
Don't miss the atmospheric bar in the basement for a drink.
:cocktail:🚶♀️ Combine with Cemetery
Consider visiting the nearby Sara Braun Cemetery for a fuller historical experience.
:gravestone:What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Palacio Sara Braun to be a beautiful and historically significant site in Punta Arenas, offering a glimpse into the life of Sara Braun and the city's past. The preserved interiors and the unique atmosphere of Bar Shackleton are frequently praised. However, some note that the museum is quite small with limited open rooms and minimal explanations, which can lead to disappointment if expectations are set too high.
"A beautiful mini palace in the centre of Punta Arenas. Enjoyed room decor, ceilings, paintings and other objects of art. We came 30.mibs before closing, were kindly greeted by a man, paid 2000 Chilean pesos, There is also an excellent bar and restaurant Taverna in a basement of the building with its own entrance. Both worth visiting."
Tatyana Valkevych
"My favorite museum in Punta Arenas. Great museum that tells a amazing story of Sara Braun and how she chanced Punta Arenas. The building is beautiful and really nice to walk around it. After your visit I recommend to have Coffee or some other drinks in the Coffee Shop or the bar/restaurant in the same building. Really recommend this place."
Björn Ólafsson
"Very tiny museum. We paid 2000 CLP, even though we were foreigners. A very nice gesture. You can take a quick glance into the restaurant next door as well. It's part of your visit."
- Jules -
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Palacio Sara Braun is conveniently located in the heart of Punta Arenas, right on Plaza Muñoz Gamero. It's easily accessible by foot if you're staying in the city center. Taxis and local buses are also readily available options to reach the plaza.
Yes, the palace is centrally located near other key sites in Punta Arenas, including the Plaza Muñoz Gamero itself, and is a short distance from the Sara Braun Cemetery, which is also recommended for a visit.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The admission fee is generally quite affordable, around 2000 Chilean pesos (approximately 3 USD as of late 2021). Visitors have noted it's a fair price for the experience.
Opening hours can vary, and it's advisable to check them in advance. Some visitors have noted that arriving shortly before closing is possible, but it's best to allow ample time.
Advance booking is typically not required for Palacio Sara Braun. You can usually purchase tickets upon arrival.
No, only a few rooms of the palace are open to the public as a museum. The building is also shared with a hotel and Bar Shackleton.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Inside, you can explore the preserved room decor, admire the ceilings and paintings, and learn about the history of Sara Braun and her influence on Punta Arenas.
Given that only a few rooms are open, a visit is usually quite short, often around 15-30 minutes.
Some visitors have noted that explanations can be minimal, so doing a little prior research on Sara Braun might enhance your visit.
Photography is generally allowed inside the museum, allowing you to capture the elegant interiors.
The interior design often resembles an old-school club, offering a unique glimpse into the past.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the palace building houses Bar Shackleton, an excellent bar and restaurant located in the basement with its own entrance. It's a popular spot for visitors to enjoy after their museum tour.
Bar Shackleton offers a unique atmosphere and is a great place to have coffee or other drinks. Specific menu details would need to be checked directly with the establishment.
📸 📸 Photography
The elegant room decor, intricate ceilings, and art objects provide beautiful photo opportunities. Visiting at sunset can also enhance the palace's aesthetic.
Generally, photography is permitted inside the museum. However, it's always a good idea to be respectful of the space and other visitors.
Interior shots focusing on architectural details, historical artifacts, and the overall ambiance work best.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider combining the visit with a stop at the nearby Bar Shackleton in the basement for a unique snack or drink, which might be a fun experience for younger visitors. The central location also makes it easy to combine with other family-friendly activities in Punta Arenas.
🏛️ History Buffs
Delve into the stories of the Braun family, their business ventures, and their impact on the region. The presence of Bar Shackleton also offers a nod to historical expeditions, adding another layer of interest. Don't miss the chance to learn about the building's declaration as a National Monument.
📸 Photographers
Visiting during the golden hour can enhance the palace's ambiance, casting a warm glow on its historical features. While the museum is small, the details within the open rooms offer plenty of opportunities for capturing unique and atmospheric photographs.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legacy of Sara Braun
Sara Braun was not just a wealthy socialite; she was a shrewd businesswoman and a patron of the arts. Her marriage to José Nogueira, another influential figure in the region, further solidified their power and impact. The palace itself was a symbol of their status, featuring luxurious interiors and a grand design that reflected the European tastes of the era. Today, the museum offers a glimpse into this fascinating past, showcasing the lifestyle and achievements of one of Patagonia's most influential women.
Beyond the personal story of Sara Braun, the palace also touches upon broader historical narratives, including the Shackleton expedition, which has a connection to the building through Bar Shackleton. This adds another layer to the historical significance of the site, making it a multifaceted destination for history enthusiasts.
Architectural Style and Preservation
Despite its age, efforts have been made to preserve the palace's historical integrity. While only a few rooms are open as a museum, the original decor, ceilings, paintings, and art objects are largely intact, offering visitors an authentic experience of the past. The building's continued use, including its role as a hotel and the presence of Bar Shackleton, also contributes to its preservation and ongoing relevance in the city.
However, some reviews mention that the museum can appear 'run down' in parts, suggesting that ongoing restoration and maintenance are crucial for safeguarding this historical monument. The palace was declared a National Monument in 1973, underscoring its importance as a cultural heritage site.
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