Not far away from the capital of Chile, Valparaíso was once an important harbour that has been threatened several times by major fires. After the opening of the Panama canal the harbour usage declined and most goods are now transported to the nearby harbour of San Antonio. The city has been founded in 1544 in an area where the native Changos were once living and it has always been an inspiration for writers and painters – that’s why this city is known around the world.
The city has some beautiful places and churches, but it is mostly known for a system of very short cable railways that bring inhabitants and tourists on top of the surrounding hills. And for the many nice graffiti decorating the houses. It was the birthplace of Salvador Allende and Augusto Pinochet (but also of Rodrigo “Rod” González, a member of the German band “Die Ärzte“). If you want to get here by car don’t look out for car parks – you can park on many small streets and there are supervisors charging you.
Valparaíso
Chile
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