Welcome adventurers and at-home explorers alike, to a journey where the extraordinary is ordinary. Today, we dive into the captivating land of Chile – a country where the rugged Andes mountains kiss the seemingly endless Pacific Ocean, where moonlike desert landscapes contrast with lush vineyards, and where modern cities coexist with timeless traditions. Chile, a thin ribbon of land stretching down the edge of South America, is a land of stunning extremes and beautiful subtleties, offering an experience as varied and flavorful as its world-famous wines.
Chile’s unique geography
The rich tapestry of Chilean life is as diverse as its geography. From the indigenous Mapuche heritage in the south to the cosmopolitan charm of Santiago, the vibrant street art of Valparaiso to the star-studded skies of the Atacama Desert, Chile will astonish you with its cultural depth and natural beauty. So, pack your virtual bags and join me on this extraordinary voyage of discovery of my home country! Chile is a long, narrow country in South America. It is known for its vast diversity, from its natural beauty and wildlife to its indigenous tribes, such as the Mapuche. The country is home to various landscapes, including mountains, deserts, forests, and beaches. Above that, Chile has a variety of wildlife, including penguins, whales, and condors. The country is also home to several indigenous tribes, including the Mapuche, who are the largest indigenous group in Chile. The Mapuche are known for their traditional way of life, which includes farming, hunting, and fishing. Ever heard of the “country of poets,”? Yes, that’s us! Inspired by Pablo Neruda and Gabriela Mistral, two of the most famous Chilean poets, we love to indulge in rhymes. We are proud that many of our local poets’ works have been translated into many languages.
History
Let’s give you a short introduction to the complex history of Chile. Starting with the indigenous cultures that first inhabited this region, namely the Inca and Mapuche peoples, our past moves forward in time, scrutinizing the pivotal encounter with the Spanish conquistadors in the 16th century. Talking about my home country’s past, we cannot forget about our struggle for independence in the early 19th century, due to its significant role in shaping Chile’s national identity and political structure. Officially independent since 1818, a tumultuous period followed in the 20th century, including the democratic successes, military coups, and human rights crises that have profoundly influenced the nation’s trajectory. Contemporary Chile paints a vivid picture of a resilient country working towards social justice and economic growth. Come with me and discover what you can expect when you visit Chile today.
The most outstanding activity is stargazing: the desert of San Pedro of Atacama is known as one of the few places where the Milky Way is most visible.
The Wonders of Chile
The dessert of San Pedro de Atacama is the center of the Atacameño culture. San Pedro is a place known for its wide history – it was once an outpost for the Incas. All this ancestral culture is found in the fortresses of the town dating from the 12th century. Starting here, you can discover valleys, deserts, salt flats, geysers, lagoons, and volcanoes, all of which are close by. The most outstanding activity is stargazing: the desert of San Pedro of Atacama is known as one of the few places where the Milky Way is most visible.
A visit to San Cristobal Hill is a must for a panoramic view of Santiago’s skyline. You can hike or take a ride on the mountain tramway to the top, where you’ll be rewarded with memorable vistas of the city and the surrounding mountains. The hill is also home to the iconic statue of the Virgin Mary, providing a peaceful sanctuary amidst the urban buzz.
Welcome to Santiago, the vibrant capital of Chile. Nestled in the heart of the country, Santiago is a city that seamlessly blends modernity with a rich cultural heritage. Boasting a population of over 7 million people, it is not only the largest city in our country but also serves as its political, cultural, and economic center. Santiago’s charm lies in its bustling urban atmosphere while also holding enough spots to take pictures for architecture-lovers. Need some fresh air to breathe? One of the most iconic landmarks is the towering Andes Mountains which provide a breathtaking backdrop to the cityscape.
Isla de Pascua (Easter Island), or Rapa Nui, is located in the eastern Pacific Ocean. The Island is internationally famous for its enormous stone statues along the territory known as Moai. It’s a very peculiar island where old traditions have remained. Its geography is no less interesting: the island is located 3,450 km west of Chile and forms a triangle of 23 km long by 11 km wide. The highest point is Mount Terevaka – from where you get a very nice view over kilometers of water.
Fiestas Patriasis a time when Chileans come together to celebrate their history, cultural heritage, and national identity.
Events
The most famous celebration in Chile is Fiestas Patrias which begins September 18 and lasts for a few days. It’s a national holiday that Chileans appreciate the most. During Fiestas Patrias, Chileans gather with friends and family to enjoy traditional Chilean cuisine, such as empanadas, grilled meats, and asado(barbecue), accompanied by the traditional drinkchicha (an alcoholic beverage made from fermented corn) or Chilean wine. Folklore dances like the cueca take center stage, with couples wearing traditional attire and showcasing their skills.
Fiestas Patrias fosters a sense of unity, pride, and patriotism among the people. The festivities not only honor Chile’s past but also highlight the vibrant and diverse traditions that define the country’s present.
Inventions
FIRST SELF-PROPELLED TORPEDO: The old factory still stands in the city of Rijeka; however, it’s not safe to visit, considering the old, damaged constructions. However, you can go and take a look at the Maritime and History Museum in Rijeka, which also holds some of the old torpedoes. MECHANICAL PENCIL: also known as a ‘Penkala,’ comes from Eduard Penkala, who moved to Croatia and at one point changed his name to Slavoljub due to his loyalty to his new homeland. RIMAC: Mate Rimac invented a modern-day electric car and founded the company Rimac Automobili, which produces electric hypercars to this day – quite sustainable and friendly already in the early days. Above that, neckties, forensic fingerprinting, parachutes, electric lightbulbs, and mp3 players are producedPeople
Step into the vibrant world of Chile and meet its most captivating treasures: the Chileans. We love to describe ourselves as a paradox in the Latin American tapestry. With our rapid cadence of Spanish, peppered with unique colloquialisms and playful dialects, we might initially seem like a linguistic challenge to the uninitiated. But lean in closer, and you’ll discover that beneath the swift words lies a rhythm, a melody of warmth, camaraderie, and infectious humor. I promise you: Our welcoming manner will make it possible to overcome linguistic barriers and have fun together, even if you do not fully understand all of our dialects. Since we use so much body language, it will also be interesting for you to just watch our conversations, which are a delightful blend of tales, jests, and anecdotes. And it’s not just words that we share generously. If you find yourself amidst a group of Chileans, chances are you’ll soon be handed a glass of piscola – a cherished Chilean drink made of alcohol and coke – that’s as much a part of our tradition as it is a testament to our welcoming nature.
“As you embark on your Chilean sojourn, be prepared to not just see the sights but to feel the pulse, the heartbeat, and the soul of this incredible nation through its people.”
Cuisine
Feast your senses on the pastel de choclo, a homemade blend of creamy corn, boiled eggs, and a sprinkle of sugar. While many renditions include chicken, don’t hesitate to request a meat-free version to enjoy its taste as a vegetarian. Then, there’s the ubiquitous empanada. Eating one of these “pockets of joy,” no matter if meaty, cheesy, mushroomy, or veggie-packed, always feels at home for me. For a true taste of Chilean vegetarian heritage, indulge in porotos granados, a robust stew that marries cranberry beans with squash, corn, onions, and basil. If you’re seeking comfort in a light dish, humitas is a great choice. This corn “pocket” is so delicious that it has been around since pre-Hispanic times. Seasoned with onions, basil, and a hint of spice it is even sustainable friendly: wrapped in a fresh corn husk, its “packaging” is 100 % biodegradable.As you chart your Chilean adventure, let this guide be your compass to the nation’s soul, its people, and its traditions. As you traverse this land, consider hopping on a bus – not just to soak in the scenic wonders but to leave a gentler footprint on this magnificent terrain. It’s one of the great ways of really getting an authentic understanding of me and my country. I hope you will like it!
Isodora
My name is Isidora, and I am a Chilean currently residing in Milan, Italy. I wrote this article to share my favorite things about my country. I grew up traveling, and I plan to continue doing so, so that I can learn about different cultures and nurture my passion for history. However, in the end nothing can replace the warm feelings and satisfaction of coming home and reading a good book by the beach in my small Chilean home town by the ocean.