Museum of Memory and Human Rights

Powerful museum documenting human rights violations under Pinochet's dictatorship

The Museo de la Memoria y los Derechos Humanos in Santiago, Chile, commemorates the victims of human rights violations during Augusto Pinochet's military dictatorship (1973–1990). Inaugurated by President Michelle Bachelet on January 11, 2010, it documents crimes against humanity – torture, forced disappearances, exile – through personal testimonies, photographs, videos and documents. Parts of its collection are recognized as UNESCO Memory of the World heritage. The building itself is a bold contemporary statement about openness and transparency. A visit is emotionally demanding but essential for understanding Chile's recent history.