Chillán

Chillán is known throughout the nation as the birthplace of liberator Bernardo O’Higgins. On a not so positive note, it is also famous for the earthquakes that have battered the town during the course of its history - which long ago ravished most of Chillán’s colonial appeal. Still, the town is worth a visit and is more than a starting point for the nearby Termas de Chillán.

The Feria de Chillán is an impressive sight, especially on Saturdays when the hustle and bustle in the street can reach a fervor pitch. The open-air market (southeast of the Plaza de Armas) has on display all the fresh fruits and vegetables desired. A bit of bartering can net buyers decent deals on jewelry, handicrafts and paintings from local artists here, too. Escuela México, which was donated to the city by the Mexican government in the wake of the 1939 earthquake, contains gorgeous murals in honor of both Mexican and Chilean history. Museo San Francisco memorializes the Franciscans that came to convert locals, and the Catedral is supposedly immune to the destruction brought about by earthquakes.

Budget travelers have no problem locating cheap accommodation at places such as Hostal Canadá and Casa Sonia Segui. Hotel Javiera Carrera cost a bit more but is more affordable than upscale hotels. Hotel Cordillera is a family-run establishment near the plaza, while Hotel Las Terrazas offers all the amenities needed for a businessman.

Chillán offers a good variety of dining options with great local dishes found in Mercado Central or Casino Cuerpo de Bomberos. Centro Español satisfies those looking for something a bit more extravagant, while Arcoiris is a vegetarian option. Fuente Alemana offers real coffee, not the instant stuff that plagues most restaurants. TEL: 042, Population: 170,000.

Neighborhoods in Chillán: Around Chillán,

Other places nearby Chillán: Santa Cruz, Concepción, Pichilemu, Constitución, Angol, Talca, Los Angeles, San Fernando, Curicó and Contulmo.