Santiago, formally Santiago de Chile, is the capital of Chile and the center of its largest conurbation. It is located in the country’s central valley, at an elevation of 520 m above mean sea level. Founded in 1541, Santiago has been the capital city since colonial times. The city boasts a downtown core of 19th century neoclassical architecture and winding side-streets, dotted by art deco, neo-gothic, and other styles.