SANTIAGO. 



43 



the top of it. The rocks and volcanic appear- 

 ance of this elevation^ combined with the 

 houses which surround its base, give to San- 

 tiago a pecuhar character. It looks almost as 

 if the top of a neighbouring mountain had been 

 cast off its foundation, and found refuge in the 

 midst of the town. From this height there is 

 an excellent view of the whole city with its 

 plaza, and churches, and gardens, as well as 

 the range of mountains which almost encircle 

 it at a short distance. The plain between is 

 frequently cultivated with maize, and vineyards 

 are also common ; but all seems now burnt up 

 and brown. On descending this hill I walked 

 by the side of the river Maypocho, on a paved 

 promenade, forming an embankment to pre- 

 vent the water from overflowing the town. 



Another ramble brought me to the Alameda, 

 in which there are several rows of trees, not 



