The Museo de la Memoria y los Derechos Humanos documents the human rights violations committed during the Pinochet dictatorship (1973–1990) — the 17 years of military rule that followed the coup that overthrew Salvador Allende. It is one of the best human rights museums in Latin America: well-designed, serious without being overwhelming, and carefully balanced between documenting atrocity and affirming the humanity of those who were disappeared, tortured, or killed.
The exhibits include testimony, archival material, personal objects, and audio-visual documentation. The section on the detention and torture centres is not easy to view, but it is important. The adjacent memorial garden is a quieter space for reflection. Open Tuesday to Sunday; free admission. The museum is in the Barrio Brasil area, a short walk from the Quinta Normal metro station.