What is chili washed with. Official name: Republic of Chile

Chile is a very diverse country, where you can find every conceivable landscape of nature, from the desert in the north to the glaciers in the south in Patagonia. In Chile, there was a mixture of Spanish culture with the customs and traditions of the local Mapuche Indians. Many tourists begin their acquaintance with this country from Montevideo, then go to Patagonia for a week, and then relax in some Chilean seaside resort.

Geography of Chile

Chile is located in the southwest of South America. Chile borders Peru to the north and Bolivia and Argentina to the east. In the west, the country is washed by the waters of the Pacific Ocean. Chile includes the Tierra del Fuego archipelago, Easter Island, and the Juan Fernandez archipelago. The total area, including the islands, is 756,950 sq. km., and the total length of the state border is 2,010 km.

Geographically, Chile occupies a narrow coastal strip between the Pacific Ocean and mountain system Andes. Most of the country has mountainous relief. Only one fifth are plains and lowlands. To the north is the Atamaca Desert. Further south towards Bio-Bio, there are many tropical forests, lakes and lagoons.

The largest Chilean peaks are located in the north and in the center of the country. These are the extinct volcanoes Llullaillaco (6,739 meters), Tres Cruces (6,749 meters), Cerro Tupungato (6,635 meters) and Ojos del Salado (6,893 meters). By the way, Ojos del Salado is considered the most high volcano in the world.

On far south, where the Patagonian Andes, the highest Chilean peaks are Torres del Paine and Mount Fitz Roy.

Capital of Chile

Santiago is the capital of Chile. More than 6 million people now live in this city. Santiago was founded by the Spaniards in 1541.

Official language of Chile

The official language is Spanish.

Religion

About 63% of the population are Catholics, about 15% are Protestants.

State structure

According to the 1981 Constitution, Chile is a presidential republic. The president is elected by popular vote for a term of 4 years. The president is both head of state and head of government.

The bicameral local parliament is called the National Congress, it consists of the Senate (38 senators) and the Chamber of Deputies (120 deputies elected by popular vote for a term of 4 years).

The main political parties are the coalition of “left” and center-left parties “Consent of Parties for Democracy”, the coalition of “right” and center-right parties “Coalition for Change”.

Administratively, the country is divided into 14 regions and 1 capital district. The regions are in turn divided into 53 provinces and 346 communities.

Climate and weather

The climate in Chile is very diverse, it is determined by the cold Humboldt Current, which originates in the subantarctic waters off the Pacific coast. Thanks to this current and southwest winds, the climate in the central and northern regions of Chile is temperate (even in those areas that lie in tropical latitudes).

Since Chile is located in the southern hemisphere, summer is in December, January and February, and winter is in June, July and August.

Santiago has an ideal climate, which is why 80% of Chileans live in this city. Summers in Santiago are hot (+28-32C), and winters are short and moderate (the air temperature sometimes drops to 0C).

The best time to visit Chile is from January to March.

Seas and oceans of Chile

To the west, Chile is bordered by the Pacific Ocean. The length of the sea coast is 6,171 km. The Humboldt Current makes the water off the coast of Chile cold, so those lovers active rest Those who love to surf and windsurf should always wear wetsuits. Near the shore, the water temperature is warm and pleasant.

Rivers and lakes

There are many rivers in Chile, but they are not very long. The largest of them are Loa (440 km), Bio-Bio (380 km), Maipe (250 km) and Maule (240 km).

culture

In many ways, the culture of Chile is more European than South American, although this country is located in South America. The reason for this phenomenon is immigrants. However, about 1 million local Indians live in Chile (mainly in the north of the country).

As in other Latin American countries, Chile celebrates a huge number of religious, cultural and folk holidays every year. In April, for example, the religious festival Fiesta de Quasimodo is celebrated, and in July, another religious festival, the Fiesta de la Tirana.

But, of course, holidays in this country are not limited to religious festivals. Every year, Chile celebrates many folklore festivals (Angola, San Bernardo, Humbelln) and music festivals (Valdivia Classical Music Festival, Tongo Jazz Festival, Semagnas de Frutillar Music Festival and Joranadas de Villarrica Music Festival) .

Chilean Cuisine

The Chilean smithy was formed on the basis of the culinary traditions of local Indians and immigrants from Europe. The main food products are potatoes, corn, beans, fish, seafood, meat. For some tourists, Chilean dishes may remind you of Peruvian cuisine. However, in fact, the Chilean forge is much richer than the Peruvian culinary traditions. Note that in Chile, spicy dishes are not very common, unlike, for example, Mexico.

1. Carbonada (meat soup with finely chopped beef and various vegetables);
2. Arrollado de Chancho (pork in spicy sauce);
3. Cazuela de Ave (chicken soup with potatoes, beans and rice);
4. Costillar de Chancho (baked pork);
5. Curanto en Hoyo ( typical dish in southern Chile, fish, seafood with potatoes in a tortilla);
6. Palta Reina (tuna or ham with avocado and mayonnaise);
7. Parrillada (fried various meats, served with potatoes or rice);
8. Pollo Arvejado (chicken fillet with green peas, onions and carrots);
9. Ceviche (sea bass in lemon juice);
10. Arroz con Leche (rice pudding).

Traditional soft drinks - fruit juices, tea, coffee.

Traditional alcoholic drinks are Chicha (sweet liqueur made from apples or grapes), Pipeno (sweet fermented wine), Pisco (grape brandy), wine.

Attractions

The main Chilean attraction is nature, although, of course, the country has several dozen interesting historical and architectural monuments of Indians and Spanish conquistadors.

In any case, tourists in Chile are definitely advised to see mysterious island Easter, El Tatio Geysers, Atacama Desert, Lauca Biosphere Reserve, Miscanti Lake, Mapuche Indian Archaeological Sites of Copaquilla and Sapahuira, Parinacota Volcano and Patagonia. In the south of the country, in the city of Valdivia, there is an old Spanish fortress built in the Middle Ages.

Much of Chile's territory is occupied National parks and reserves. The most famous and popular of them - national park Puyehu (107 thousand hectares), Lauca National Park (located in the east of the country), Villarrica National Park with Carbugua Lake, Chiloe National Park with relic coniferous and evergreen forests.

Cities and resorts

The largest cities are Santiago, Puente Alto, Antofagasta, San Bernardo, Viña del Mar, Temuco and Valparaiso.

Most of the most famous Chilean sea ​​resorts located in the central part of the country.

Some of the best Chilean beaches include the following:

1. La Virgen Beach 70 kilometers from Copiapo (infrastructure is not developed)
2. Anakena Beach, Easter Island (beach surrounded by coconut trees, turquoise water with soft sand)
3. Bahía Inglesa Beach near Copiapo (well developed infrastructure)
4. Ovahe Beach, Easter Island (located at the foot of a volcanic cliff)
5. Las Tijeras, Dama Island (114 km northeast of Coquimbo)

In Chile, there are several good, even by European standards, ski resorts. Among them, we single out Valle Nevado, 60 km from Santiago at an altitude of 3025 m (more than 30 slopes and 40 lifts), Portillo, 145 km from Santiago at an altitude of 2880 m (a large number of slopes, 11 lifts, an outdoor swimming pool with heated water), ski resort Farellones - El Colorado - La Parva (more than 14 km of slopes and 17 lifts).

Souvenirs/Shopping

Tourists in Chile buy handicrafts, jewelry (especially lapis lazuli), Greda (Chilean traditional pottery), small ceramic animal figurines, copper utensils, Emboque (traditional Chilean game), small moai statues from Easter Island, football souvenirs, Chilean spices (eg Merquén), wine.

Office Hours

Countries Latin America- a relatively new tourist destination and, unlike resorts Caribbean, quite a small amount Russian tourists come here for vacation. Chile is one of them. We primarily associate this state with the bloody dictator Pinochet, and also with very hot peppers. But the years

go, the military junta has been defeated, and chili peppers can be omitted or consumed in moderation. But the amazing beauty of nature, the wonders of architecture and the mysteries of bygone civilizations have remained and beckon inquisitive travelers.

Tours in Chile rarely pass without a visit on the shore of which there are strange stone moai idols. Scientists still cannot agree on what religious beliefs gave rise to these sculptures and, most importantly, how the ancient islanders brought them to the shores from the quarries. “As a child, we were taught at school - there is no country more wonderful than Chile,” is sung in a song based on the verses of Pablo Neruda. This phenomenal state lies in almost all climatic zones of the planet, and you can ride from the subequatorial jungle to the tundra without crossing

The capital of Chile - Santiago, cannot, of course, be compared with Rio de Janeiro or Buenos Aires, where many buildings of colonial architecture have been preserved, but this city has its own "face", its own special charm. Many travelers consider it as a simple transit point to immediately go to or to Patagonia. However, there is reason to stay here for a few days. From all sides, Santiago is surrounded by a crown of majestic mountain peaks.

The Andes not only form a kind of microclimate, but also serve as a place of recreation for the residents of the capital: mountaineering, rock climbing, trekking, and also snowboarding. Plenty of snow-covered slopes, and a little cold, you can go to the beach, since the capital of Chile lies just an hour from the sea. Acquainted with natural beauties surroundings of Santiago, you need to pay due attention to the architectural sights of the city.

All excursion tours usually start from the Plaza de Armas - the Plaza of Weapons, from which the capital of Chile began. In 1541, the Spanish conquistador Pedro de Valdivia built an arsenal on this site, because he felt uncomfortable among the local population. Since that time, the square was also a market, festivals and even bullfights were held on it. Now fountains murmur here, and only the bronze statue of the conquistador reminds of the

stunned. La Chascona is an obligatory point in the excursion program in Santiago. This house of the poet fully reflects his character: here you will not find even walls and right angles, but only a complex interweaving of flights of stairs, garden paths and secret passages.

The capital of Chile is also famous for another building - La Moneda Palace. Once coins were minted here (hence the name), but later a presidential palace was built here. It was he who was bombed by the Pinochet junta in 1973, as a result of which the palace was partially destroyed. Opposite the building of the government residence, a monument is now erected. If you wish, you can get inside the building or simply limit yourself to watching the solemn changing of the guard to the beat of drums and music.

Geographical position

The Republic of Chile is located in the southwest of South America, between the Pacific Ocean and the Andes. The height of the Andes in some places in northern Chile reaches 6880 m. high point countries - Mount Ojos del Salado (6893 m) on the border with Argentina. There are many volcanoes in the country. In the area of ​​the island of Tierra del Fuego there is an extensive system of fjords. Between the ridges of the Andes is the Longitudinal Valley, which is the main economic region of the state.

Mainland Chile shares borders with Argentina, Peru and Bolivia. West Side The country is washed by the waters of the Pacific Ocean.

The capital of Chile is Santiago (4.6 million inhabitants). The area of ​​the republic is 756.6 thousand square meters. km. The length of Chile from the city of Arica, located in the north, to Cape Horn in the south, is 4025 km.

The Republic of Chile has access to the Atlantic Ocean through the Strait of Magellan.

In the Pacific Ocean, Chile owns several small islands. These are: Easter Island, the Sala y Gomez Islands, San Felix, San Ambrosio, the Juan Fernandez Islands, and the Diego Ramirez Islands, which are located 100 km southwest of Cape Horn.

By latitude, the territory of the country is divided into three regions, which have different climates and topography. These are: Northern Desert (Atacama desert region), Central Chile (Andean highlands) and Southern Chile (hilly zone of dense forests in the foothills of the Southern Andes with narrow straits and mountainous islands in the extreme south). Chile is the longest and narrowest country on the planet. In addition, she is also the most southern country in the world, because located just 900 km from Antarctica. The Chilean city of Puerto Williams is considered the southernmost city in the world. The Atacama Desert is the driest place on earth.

Almost all rivers in the country belong to the Pacific Ocean. most major river in the middle part of the country is Bio-Bio. Most big lakes Chile - Llanquihue and Ranko. The Patagonian lakes are located in the eastern foothills of the Andes, on the border with Argentina. For this reason, most of them have double names: Chilean and Argentinean.

The climate in Chile is quite diverse: tropical desert in the north, Mediterranean in the center and temperate oceanic in the south. This is due to the large length of the country from north to south. Climate zones can be divided into three groups. In the north of the country, a tropical, desert type of climate prevails. The northern region of the country is considered one of the driest places in the world. Under the influence of the Humboldt current, the temperature softens there.

In Santiago, in January, the air temperature is from 12°C to 29°C, and in July - from 3°C to 15°C.

In the middle part of Chile, a temperate climate of the oceanic type dominates. The air temperature in these places ranges from +3-12 in winter to +22 °C in summer. In this case, precipitation falls from 100 to 800 mm. a year, mostly in winter. On mountain slopes up to a height of 1 thousand meters above sea level, the amount of precipitation can reach up to 2500 mm. in year.

The highlands of the country differ from the coastal plain in a cooler climate. Here the temperature even in summer can not exceed +3 ° C, and in winter it drops to -27 ° C) and an insignificant amount of precipitation. To the south are colder regions, where it even sometimes snows.

The average annual temperature in Punta Arenas is around 7°C.

Easter Island has an even subtropical hot climate. The coolest time here is from July to August. The average monthly air temperature is +18°C. The hottest month is February with average temperature+ 24 ° C. On this island, most of the precipitation will fall in May. It is cold in the area of ​​the Strait of Magellan and on the island of Tierra del Fuego. There blow strong winds, there is little rainfall.

The best time to visit Santiago and the central region of Chile is from September to November. It is better to go to Easter Island in March, and to ski resorts - June-August.

Chile is one of the countries in Latin America with the highest quality roads. In addition, this country has a fairly extensive network railways and convenient flights.

Arturo Merino Benitez International Airport is located 26 km west of Santiago.

Tourists can use buses to move around the city. They are painted yellow and white. However, the movement speed is low. In addition, city buses are not very comfortable.

Intercity buses are offered by several companies in all cities of the country. The level of service is quite high, they go regularly.

The capital has a subway with three lines. It should be noted that the subway there is distinguished by its speed, cleanliness, safety and cheapness. On weekdays and Saturdays, the metro is open from 6:30 to 22:30, on Sundays and holidays - from 8:00 to 22:30.

Taxis are quite popular in Chile. To make them easy to recognize, these cars are brightly colored with black bottoms and yellow tops. Each car is equipped with a counter and has its own registration number. Chilean taxi drivers are distinguished by their politeness.

Railways stretched from Santiago to the south of the country. They pass through such cities as: Rancagua, Talca, Chillan, Concepcion and to the final station - Temuco. There are several types of trains in Chile passenger cars. They vary in terms of comfort. Train delays occur quite often in the country.

Tourists in Chile can also rent a car. This is done by a large number of different companies. The driver must be at least 21 years old and not older than 75. He must have a passport, an international driver's license and a credit card with him, which will serve as a guarantee.

Some companies offer such a convenient service as car return in any city of the country. You need to know that when returning the car, it must have the same fuel level with which it was rented.

Most often, car rental implies unlimited mileage, insurance, 24-hour rental, the presence of a child seat, luggage rack, ski equipment, as well as a cable and a map.

In Chile, the driver and passenger must wear seat belts. It is forbidden to smoke, use a cell phone or player while driving. Chilean drivers very often show their intentions with their left hand. If the traffic rules have been violated, the driver loses his license and will have to meet with the judge. In Chile, there are often checks on the roads driving license and documents. Drunk driving is considered a serious offence. He will have to pay a big fine. Such a driver may even be arrested.

If necessary, the tourist also has the opportunity to rent a car with a driver. At the same time, you need to know that the payment will be higher if the driver speaks one of the European languages.

Of great importance sea ​​transport, providing 95% of the total foreign trade turnover of the country. Major ports: Huasco, Valparaiso, Tocopilla.

Minerals

Chile has a large amount of minerals. Among industrialized and developing countries, the country ranks first in terms of copper reserves (over 97 million tons) and saltpeter. The country ranks second after America in terms of molybdenum reserves. Chile ranks third after Iraq and the US in terms of sulfur reserves. Molybdenum reserves amount to 2500 thousand tons. The country also has reserves of gold, silver, rare earth elements, lithium, iron, coal, natural gas. Oil and gas fields are located on Tierra del Fuego (oil - 51 million tons, gas - 70 billion m 3). Coal deposits (Lota, Coronel, etc.) are located near the city of Concepción. The total reserves are 3.9 billion tons. Coal is mined mainly brown, of low quality. Table salt, sodium nitrate and iodine salts, manganese, molybdenum, tungsten, zinc and aluminum are mined in the foothill depressions.

Agriculture

Only 8% of the country's area is occupied by the cultivation of agricultural crops. Approximately 3/4 of the cultivated land is given over to cereals and vegetables. The main crops are wheat, barley, oats, potatoes and sugar beets. The methods of cultivating the land and harvesting are rather primitive. However, the wheat harvest is high. Wheat crops occupy almost half of the arable land in Central Chile. Corn (maize) is a traditional fodder crop in Chile. Clover, alfalfa, vetch, legumes, rice and pepper are also grown in the country. Fruit grows in the northern part of Central Chile. Vineyards occupy 2% of the total area of ​​cultivated land. They are located mainly in the provinces of Talca, Santiago and Linares. Chile sells wines for export to the US and Europe.

Animal husbandry is quite important for the country's economy. In the southern part of Central Chile, cattle and dairy animals are mainly bred. Sheep breeding is carried out mainly in the extreme south of the country, in the Punta Arenas region.

healthcare

For a trip to Chile, tourists are advised to take out international health insurance. To protect your health, it is best to get vaccinated against tetanus and hepatitis. Sometimes epidemic outbreaks of meningococcal meningitis are recorded in the country. In rural areas of Chile, infection with Chagas disease can occur. Other diseases that are spread by insects are practically non-existent in Chile. Occasionally, cases of rabies infection may occur.

The milk sold in Chile is pasteurized and is safe to drink even when unpasteurized. The only exception is some remote mountainous regions of the country. Meat and fish must be cooked. Pork, lettuce, and sauces may pose some danger. Vegetables should be thoroughly washed before eating. It is best to remove the peel from fruits and vegetables. All water must be boiled.

Chile- a state in the southwest of South America, occupying a long strip of land between the Pacific Ocean and the Andes. It is bordered by the Pacific Ocean to the west, Argentina to the east, Peru to the north, and Bolivia to the northeast. The capital is Santiago.

The territory of Chile (excluding Easter Island and Chilean Antarctica) - 756,102 km². The area of ​​Easter Island is 163.6 km², Chilean Antarctica is about 1.25 million km². Length coastline 6435 km, land border - 6171 km (Argentina - 5150 km, Bolivia - 861 km, Peru - 171 km).

Chile is located in the southern part of the Andes, this is the region of the largest elevation changes in the world. The highest point in Chile is Mount Ojos del Salado (6880 m), near the coast of Chile is the Atacama depression of the Peru Trench, where the depth reaches 6601 m. This is almost 13.5 kilometers.

In addition, the region of Chile is seismically unstable with many active volcanoes, both underwater and terrestrial. Earthquakes happen quite often. It was in Chile that the most powerful earthquake in the history of mankind was officially recorded - the Great Chilean Earthquake. On May 22, 1960, the strength of the shocks was, according to various sources, 9.3 to 9.5.

Climate in Chile

Chile is located in the southern hemisphere, so the seasons here are counted backwards: Chilean winter lasts from May to September, and summer - from November to March (the hottest and driest period of the year).

Due to the large extent of the territory, the climate varies from tropical in the north to temperate oceanic in the south.

A tropical desert climate prevails in the north of the country, and average monthly temperatures range from +12°C (May-August) to +26°C (December-March). Here is the Atacama Desert, one of the driest areas in the world, where rain falls once every few decades.

South climate changes to subtropical, with summer temperatures in the range of +22..+24°С, and winter temperatures in the region of +12..+18°С. The weather is the same on Easter Island and Juan Fernandez.

The middle part of the country is dominated by a temperate oceanic climate. The temperature there ranges from +3..+12°С in winter to +22°С in summer.

In the highlands of the country it is much colder: in some places it does not exceed +3°C even in summer, in winter it can drop to -27°C.

In the area of ​​the Strait of Magellan and on the island of Tierra del Fuego, the climate is polar, the temperature in winter ranges from -16 to -4°C, while in summer it does not exceed +18°C.

On the coast of Chile, the climate is generally colder than at the same latitude in other coastal areas. This is due to the powerful cold Humboldt current, an offshoot of the West Winds current, which influences the climate up to Galapagos Islands lying almost on the equator.

Population of Chile

The population of Chile in 2009 is 16,601,707. Urban population: 88% of the total population.

Basically - Chileans (mestizos) - about 65%. A small number of Indian tribes also live - about 5% (many of them are almost assimilated) and people from other countries. In the southern part of Chile and on the islands, one can meet the living descendants of immigrants from Europe - Germans, French, Basques, Irish, Croats, Russians, etc. (only about 30%).

The vast majority of Chileans (about 70%) profess Catholicism, about 15% belong to various Protestant denominations, primarily Pentecostals. Protestantism has become especially popular in Chile in recent years. Among the Indians remain adherents of traditional Indian religions.

Official - Spanish ("castellano"). The Indian peoples have largely retained their languages, but they also know Spanish, since teaching at school is only in Spanish. Communication between Indians of various nationalities is also carried out in Spanish.

Last changes: 26.04.2013

Currency

Chilean peso (CLP).

The circulation contains banknotes with a dignity of 500 Chilean pesos, 1000 Chilean pesos, 2000 Chilean pesos, 5000 Chilean peso, 10,000 Chilean peso, coins with the dignity of 1 Chilean peso, 5 Chilean peso, 10 Chilean pesos, 50 Chilean pesos, 100 Chilean pesos.

Banks are open from Monday to Friday from 09.00 to 14.00. Exchange offices are open from 9.00 to 19.00 daily.

You can exchange money at banks or exchange offices. It is quite possible to exchange with private money changers - their rate is usually 10 percent more profitable, but this form of exchange cannot be recommended as a permanent one - cases of fraud are not uncommon here.

Large shops, restaurants and hotels accept credit cards of the world's leading systems for payment. Traveler's checks can be exchanged at banks (traveler's check departments are usually only open until noon) or at exchange offices (usually a better exchange rate). To avoid additional exchange costs, it is recommended to take travelers checks in US dollars with you. In the province, the use of non-cash means of payment is problematic.

Last changes: 05/11/2010

Communication and communications

Telephone code: 56

Internet domain: .cl

Ambulance - 131, fire department - 132, police - 133.

City codes

Santiago - 2, Antofagasta, Calama - 55, Arica - 58, La Serena - 51, Valparaiso and Viña del Mar - 32, Castro - 65, Los Angeles - 43, Punta Arenas and Puerto Natales - 61, Puerto Montt - 65, Temuco - 45.

How to call

In order to call from Chile to Russia, you need to dial: 00 - 7 - area code - subscriber number.

To call from Russia to Chile, you need to dial: 8 - beep - 10 - 56 - area code - subscriber number.

mobile connection

Mobile communication (GSM 1900 standard) is well developed in Chile. Almost complete coverage of the flat regions of the country and the capital. In mountainous areas, the coverage is patchy, even along many major highways the connection is unstable.

Fixed line

Chile's telecommunications system is at a fairly high level. Telephones with direct automatic access to an international line can be found in bank offices, large restaurants and hotels, shops and other public places. International calls can also be made from the post office or from the hotel (much more expensive, the price of a minute depends on the level of the hotel itself). Most public payphones operate with calling cards, which can be purchased at company offices, tobacconists and supermarkets.

Internet

Network technologies and means of their service in Chile are developing very intensively. in the capital and others major cities(even on Easter Island) you can find many Internet cafes. Many hotels provide internet access.

Last changes: 05/24/2010

shopping

It is quite possible to bargain in the markets and in private shops in Chile. However, the prices there are already low.

It is worth bringing wood crafts with carvings and paintings, musical instruments, ceramics, bronze and silver jewelry, and glassware from the country. At one of the largest souvenir markets in Santiago, Pueblito los Dominicos, you can buy quality copper products, silver and crystal jewelry, Indian handicrafts, alpaca and llama wool products.

Last changes: 05/11/2010

Where to stay

All hotels in Chile, as a rule, meet international standards and correspond to the assigned "star rating". Hotels are diverse in class, quality of service and services provided.

Sea and beaches

The beaches are very popular, in terms of infrastructure and quality they cannot be compared with the world famous resorts. Chile is not a country of beach tourism, a few days on the coast, as a rule, only complement a rich excursion program. It is also worth remembering that the water in the ocean rarely warms up above 15 degrees, and most beaches are not suitable for swimming due to dangerous waves and currents.

Beach months are from December to the end of March. In May-July, rain is possible and the evenings are quite cold.

Last changes: 01.09.2010

History of Chile

Before the arrival of the Spaniards, the territory of today's Chile was inhabited by numerous Indian tribes. In the middle of the 15th century The Indians of the north and parts of the center of Chile were conquered by the Incas. But most of the Mapuche retained their independence. At the beginning of the 16th century the Indian population of Chile was about 1 million people.

In 1535 Spanish conquistadors headed by Diego de Almagro landed in Chile. By 1544, the Spaniards had conquered all Northern part the center of Chile and was included in the viceroyalty of Peru as a governorship. A number of cities were founded on the occupied lands.

As a result of the anti-Spanish popular uprising on September 18, 1810, independence was proclaimed in Santiago. At the beginning of 1813, the Spanish army resumed hostilities against the rebels, and in 1814 the colonial regime was restored. But in 1817, the Liberation Army of José de San Martin, the main backbone of which was the Chilean units under the command of Bernardo O "Higgins, invaded Chile from the territory of Argentina, and finally defeated the colonial troops. In 1823, the slavery of Negroes was abolished. In 1826 . was released from the Spanish troops.

In the Pacific War against Spain in 1864-1866, Chile defended its independence. The clash of economic and political interests between Chile (supported by Great Britain) and its neighbors Peru and Bolivia (supported by the USA) caused the Pacific War of 1879-1884. Chile won and the regions of Peru (Tarapaca) and Bolivia (Antofagasta), with the richest saltpeter deposits in the world, went to it.

In World War I, Chile declared neutrality, but the ships of Great Britain and Germany called at Chilean ports and conducted military operations in the territorial waters of Chile. By the end of the war, Chile's main trading partner was the United States. In 1925, a new constitution was adopted, proclaiming basic civil liberties and separating church from state.

With the outbreak of World War II, Chile declares its neutrality, but in 1943 breaks relations with Germany, Italy and Japan and in 1945 declares war on Germany and Japan. But Chile did not participate in the hostilities. December 11, 1944 Chile establishes diplomatic relations with the USSR. With the beginning of the Cold War, under pressure from the United States in 1947, the government of Gabriel Gonzalez Videla tore them apart.

1970-1988, a period associated with the activities of the government of President Salvador Allende and the reforms of the military junta of General Augusto Pinochet.

After the People's Unity bloc (an association of left-wing and center-left parties and organizations) came to power, headed by the elected (but did not receive an absolute majority of votes) President Salvador Allende, in 1970-1972. a complex of left-wing social and economic transformations was carried out in the country: the nationalization of enterprises and banks, agrarian reform, the development of social programs, and changes in labor legislation in the interests of employees. Allende's policy faced growing resistance from conservative financial, industrial and latifundist circles within the country, and pressure from foreign corporations. This led to economic difficulties, which then turned into an economic crisis. High inflation and commodity shortages caused social tensions to rise, accompanied by right-wing opposition-funded strikes, street riots, and a surge in right-wing terrorism.

The economic situation was further exacerbated by the credit boycott of Chile by major US and international banks. President Allende was systematically subjected to pressure from the one side of the radical left, who demanded to speed up the reforms and move from the nationalization of industries resorting to sabotage to the complete expropriation of capitalist property; and on the other hand, the rightists, who demanded to curtail the implementation of reforms and abandon the proclaimed social guarantees.

Parliament and the court, the majority of which were right-wingers and conservatives, resigned their powers in defiance of the socialist government. By September 1973, state power was paralyzed.

The CIA financed the opposition media, politicians and organizations, stimulating the organization of campaigns to destabilize the country. The country's top generals decided to carry out a military coup. During the coup during the assault presidential palace Salvador Allende was killed, reportedly circulated by the military junta, committed suicide. The dictatorship of the Governmental Junta was established in the country, headed by General Augusto Pinochet.

The constitution was abolished, the National Congress was dissolved, all left and center-left parties and organizations, both part of the People's Unity and not, were outlawed, the United Trade Union Center of Workers (CUT) was banned and the Cybersyn project was destroyed, the activities of right-wing parties were declared "suspended" , and in 1977 also completely banned. Later, new yellow trade unions, under the control of the military regime, were established, in the manner of Mussolini or Francoist.

Officially, the state of "state of siege" imposed to carry out the coup continued for a month after 9/11. During this period, over 30,000 people were killed in Chile. The destruction of opposition representatives was also carried out outside the country. The operation "Condor" for the elimination of political emigrants, carried out by the National Intelligence Directorate of DINA, together with the intelligence services of other Latin American dictatorships, gained fame. So, for example, Operation Colombo was carried out, as a result of which 119 people "expelled from Chile" were actually killed. At the same time, the Pinochet regime was engaging with European neo-fascists for the same purpose.

The period of General Pinochet's rule in political terms was based on the restriction of civil and political rights and freedoms and the harsh suppression of the opposition. Repression, illegal imprisonment and torture continued until the end of the dictatorship. The socio-economic sector of the country experienced a significant setback thanks to the neo-liberal counter-reforms launched by the regime (prices rose in some cases by 18-20 times, and for such basic foodstuffs as bread, milk, meat - by 4-10 times), as a result of which today from 20 (according to official data) to 40% (according to independent organizations) of the population of Chile are below the poverty line, and the dictator himself, members of his family and other high-ranking officials of the regime became the beneficiary of privatization.

In 1978, censorship in the media was somewhat relaxed and, in limited cases, "live broadcast" on radio and television was allowed. In 1980, the country adopted a new constitution, but its implementation was delayed until 1988. In 1988, as a result of powerful protests within the country and under pressure from the United States, Pinochet agreed to a plebiscite on the question of maintaining the dictatorship. On October 5, 1988, Pinochet lost the plebiscite, and the National Security Council assembled by him rejected the dictator's proposal to refuse to recognize the results of the plebiscite and make a new coup.

In 1989, Chile passed to democratic rule, elections were held, which were won by the opposition to the dictatorship, the Consent of Parties for Democracy bloc. In 1990, the bloc's candidate, Christian Democrat Patricio Aylvin, took over as president.

However, experts assess the state-legal structure of Chile based on the 1980 constitution as a compromise, a “draw” between democracy and dictatorship, since it contains mechanisms that limit the ability of the civil authorities to control the army and provide preferences to the figures of the former military regime.

Last changes: 04/26/2013

Chile is the southernmost country in the world, because located just 900 km from Antarctica.

Puerto Williams is the southernmost city in the world.

The Atacama Desert is the driest place on earth.

The largest difference in the level of the relief of the globe (almost 13.5 kilometers difference) - between the top of Mount Ojos del Salada (Valcán Ojos del Salada) and the bottom of the Pacific Ocean is located in region III, near the city of Copiapo.

Lake Chungara (Chungará), located in the north of the country, 189 km from the city of Arica (Arica), at an altitude of 4,517 m above sea level - is the most alpine lake planets.

Lunar Valley, which is located between the city of Calama (Calama) and San Pedro de Atacama (San Pedro de Atacama) - the only place on the planet, very reminiscent of a lunar landscape.

The only natural laboratory in the world that changes its chemical composition depending on the time of year is Lake Copaue, located near Los Angeles. Hot underground waters of volcanic origin change its chemical composition from winter to summer.

Chilean Patagonia is the cleanest place on the planet.

The Elqui Valley (Valle de Elqui) has the clearest sky on earth, with an average of 240 cloudless nights a year, which is why the largest astronomical observatory in the Southern Hemisphere has been built there.

World's tallest permanently active volcano- 6 064 m. - Vallyatiri volcano, located near the village of Chapikinya in the I region.

Easter Island is the most remote on the planet, because. the nearest habitable place is 2,500 km away.

Chile is the only country in the world from where there are tours to Antarctica and Easter Island.

This is the only country where there are no poisonous snakes.

In the markets and in private shops you can bargain. The price level in the country is low, but somewhat higher than in neighboring countries.

The system of measures and weights is metric.

Be careful when photographing warships in harbors. This can lead to close acquaintance with the local police, who are considered incorruptible.

You should not smoke and drink alcohol on the streets - in many places it is considered a sign of bad taste, and in some cities it is even prohibited. Effective mid-2006 new law banning smoking in government offices, buses, stadiums, schools, hospitals and other public places, and large non-smoking areas in restaurants. Violators will be fined 15,000 pesos ($30).

All water should be considered potentially contaminated. Water used for drinking, brushing teeth or making ice should be boiled first. Milk is pasteurized and safe to drink even in unpasteurized form everywhere except in remote areas. mountainous areas. Meat and fish must be subjected to mandatory heat treatment.

You can swim in the ocean only in strictly designated areas.

In Chile you will find excellent wines. You will be strongly advised to try the national so-called 40 degree liquor called pisco, which in the Russian sense is considered grape vodka. It will be difficult for a Russian person who is accustomed to pure vodka to appreciate the merits of pisco. Pisco is not drunk just like that, it is diluted with various fizzy drinks, such as Schweppes, Coca-Cola, etc. (recipes for making pisco cocktails are given in the Wine section)

You won't find good quality vodka in Chile. Two options are possible - this is Absolut of dubious quality and Stolichnaya in the export version, which is far behind in quality from any average price vodka in Russia. Therefore, if you want to make a good gift to your drinking Chilean friend, then bring him vodka, he will be extremely happy.

A woman drinking a glass of vodka with a casuela at dinner is nonsense. Don't be surprised if a full line of waiters line up behind you to see how you do it. The opinions of the waiters are divided, some will look at you with respect, while others, looking at your decent appearance, will be bewildered. But at the same time, no one will tell you anything. If anyone in Santiago has seen anything like this, then in the provinces - never.

The attitude towards the Pinochet regime is very contradictory and depends on the age category of your acquaintances. As a rule, people over fifty treat Pinochet with great sympathy, those who are younger are very contradictory - some hate, some love. Do not be surprised if on the street you see slogans painted on the walls with the following content: "Long live, Pinochet!" (Viva Pinochet). However, when you see Chile - a beautiful, prosperous country with smiling faces of its citizens, talk to them, and they will tell you about the hunger and poverty of socialism, which they had to experience for several years, unlike our seventy, then form your own opinion. about Pinochet.

Valparaiso and Viña del Mar are theoretically two cities, but practically two large areas of one. If you want to stay either in Valparaiso or Vigne for a few days, be sure to choose a hotel on the coast. Almost the entire coast is dotted with small rocks, and small cozy hotels rise on these rocks. Therefore, from the window of your sea, you will look directly at the ocean and its white waves will break against your window.

You can swim in the ocean only in strictly designated areas. If you decide to become a hero and swim in the Pacific Ocean in another place, then the surf will not give you the opportunity to go to the rocky shore. However, in any case, the coast police and rescuers work perfectly, rescue operations are organized at a very high level. Onlookers from the shore will even have time to film the rescue process.

A stunning sight in Santiago - women - traffic controllers at intersections. It looks very nice in combination with the perfect order in the movement of vehicles. No driver will ever run a red light or even cross a stop line. The only problem is the buses that take advantage of the fact that they are big and behave very arrogantly on the roads, all the drivers do not like them.

Almost all families in Chile (according to our concepts) have many children. Having four or five children is normal and not from poverty, but from the fact that a respectable dad is able to feed such a crowd and give all his children the education necessary for a happy life. Divorce is not accepted in Chile.

If you are a passionate fan of strawberries - then demand it in a restaurant, it is very tasty in Chile. Your only difficulty will be that the well-known word "fresa" (Spanish for "strawberry") will not help you, in Chile it is called "frutilla" - "frutilla".

Last changes: 20.01.2013

How to get to Chile

Main airport The country is located in the capital Santiago.

There is no direct air connection between Chile and Russia, you can get to the country using Air France flights with a connection in Paris or Iberia flights with a connection in Madrid, as well as by a Lufthansa flight with a connection in Frankfurt and a stopover in Sao Paulo (Brazil) . The average flight duration is 20 hours.

If you are already in South America (Brazil, Argentina, Peru and Bolivia), then you can get to Chile by bus (cheap, exotic and pretty reliable).

Last changes: 04/26/2013