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Desert blooms in Caldera, ChileSource: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:2005.11.08_021_Flor_Caldera_Chile.jpg
Author: Herman Luyken
Similar to other seaports in Northern Chile, Caldera was founded for the purpose of exporting minerals extracted from the region. The area was first visited by English buccaneer Edward Davis in 1687. The town itself was established in 1850 in anticipation of the railway line which was being constructed to link it with Copiapó.
Caldera suffered earthquakes and tsunamis, the same with many of the cities in Chile. This happened in 1868, 1877 and 1922. The economy of Caldera was traditionally dependent on the export of minerals, chiefly copper. While this is still happening today, it has declined from the early part of the 20th century, and the town has since diversified, to include citrus farming, fishing and tourism. The area has nice beaches that attract domestic tourists from the main cities of Chile.
Orbicular Granite Nature Sanctuary near Caldera, ChileSource: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:2005.11.08_005_Granito_Orbicular_Caldera_Chile.jpg
Author: Herman Luyken
Visiting Caldera
Take a bus from Antofagasta or Santiago to reach Caldera.Sights & Attractions in Caldera
- Bahía Inglesia (English Bay)
One of the most beautiful beaches in Chile today, this bay was probably named after the English buccaneer (aka pirate) Edward Davis who arrived there in 1687. - Iglesia de San Vicente de Paul
The main and oldest church in town, built in 1862 in the Neo-Gothic style. - Museo Palaeontológico
Housed in the town's old railway station from 1850, the museum displays prehistoric artifacts, including the fossilized skull of a whale. - Santuario de la Naturaleza Granito Orbicular (Orbicular Granite Nature Sanctuary)
A protected area with unusual rock formations. - Terminal Pesquero (Fishermen's Wharf)
This is the harbor and market where the freshest seafood are sold and served.
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