Villarrica, Chile

Villarrica is a city in Cautín Province, Araucanía Region, Chile. It covers 1,291 sq km (498.5 sq mi) and has a population of 47,000 people (2012 estimate). Surrounded by scenic views, it has become a popular tourist destination for both summer and winter sports. Among the tourist activities here include water sports and fishing.

Villarrica was founded in 1552 by Jerónimo de Alderete, and was originally called Santa María Magdalena de Villa Rica. Two years after it was established, Alderete died, resulting in the abandonment of the settlement. Five years after that it was reestablished by García Hurtado de Mendoza.

Villarrica was destroyed once again 1603, during the Arauco War between the Spaniards and the local Mapuche people. It was rebuilt in the 1880s, and the present city dates from this rebuilding. This time the government attracted European settlers including mainly Swiss, German and Austrian immigrants to resettle in the area. The German roots of the immigrants are still celebrated on 1 August, which is the Swiss National Day.

View of Lake Villarrica with the Villarica volcano
Source: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Lago_Villarrica_mit_Vulkan_Villarrica.jpg
Author: Roberthelmlinger

Visiting Villarrica

There are overnight buses from Santiago to Villarrica daily. The nearest airport is at Temuco.

Places of Interest in Villarrica

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