Pablo Neruda (1904–1973) was a Chilean poet, diplomat, and Nobel Prize winner in Literature. Although born outside Santiago, he lived and worked extensively in the capital, where much of his political and literary career developed.
Gabriela Mistral (1889–1957) was a Chilean poet, educator, and diplomat. She spent important years in Santiago working in education and cultural institutions and became the first Latin American woman to receive the Nobel Prize in Literature.
Violeta Parra (1917–1967) was a Chilean folk singer, songwriter, and visual artist. Closely linked to Santiago’s cultural scene, she played a central role in preserving Chilean folklore and inspiring the Nueva Canción movement.
Víctor Jara (1932–1973) was a Chilean singer, songwriter, theater director, and activist. Based in Santiago, he became an iconic voice of social justice and cultural expression in Chile and Latin America.
Isabel Allende (born 1942) is a Chilean novelist and journalist. Born in Lima, she grew up and began her literary career in Santiago, later achieving worldwide fame with novels such as "The House of the Spirits."
Pedro Lemebel (1952–2015) was a Chilean writer, performer, and social critic born in Santiago. His work challenged social inequality and conservatism, making him a powerful voice in Chilean contemporary literature.
Alejandro Jodorowsky (born 1929) is a Chilean filmmaker, writer, and artist. Born in Iquique, he developed his early artistic career in Santiago before becoming an influential figure in international avant-garde cinema.
Raúl Ruiz (1941–2011) was a Chilean film director and screenwriter. He studied and worked in Santiago, where he helped shape Chile’s cinematic culture before gaining international recognition.
Claudio Bravo (1936–2011) was a renowned Chilean hyperrealist painter. Born in Valparaíso, he studied and exhibited extensively in Santiago, influencing generations of Chilean visual artists.
Alfredo Jaar (born 1956) is a Chilean architect, photographer, and installation artist. Based in Santiago early in his career, he became internationally known for socially engaged art addressing politics and human rights.