Coquimbos

The Coquimbos were an indigenous people of the central coast of Chile, primarily inhabiting the region around the modern-day city of Coquimbo and its surrounding valleys. They were part of the larger cultural and linguistic group known as the Diaguitas, which also included the Calchaquíes and other related groups in northern Argentina and southern Peru. The Coquimbos thrived in the arid coastal and Andean foothill environments, adapting their lifestyle to the region’s agricultural and pastoral opportunities.

The Coquimbos were known for their advanced agricultural techniques, cultivating crops such as maize, quinoa, potatoes, and squash in terraced fields. They also practiced herding, particularly of llamas and alpacas, which were essential for transportation, wool, and meat. Their society was organized into chiefdoms, with leaders governing through a combination of kinship ties and religious authority. Ceramics, textiles, and metalwork were prominent aspects of their material culture, reflecting their skill in craftsmanship.

The Coquimbos were encountered by Spanish conquistadors in the 16th century, beginning with Diego de Almagro’s expedition in 1536. Their resistance to Spanish colonization was notable, though they eventually faced assimilation and displacement. By the late colonial period, many Coquimbos had converted to Christianity and adopted Spanish customs, though elements of their indigenous traditions persisted. Today, descendants of the Coquimbos are part of the broader Diaguita cultural heritage, with some communities continuing to practice traditional crafts and agricultural methods.

Archaeological sites such as the Pukará de Quitor and the ruins of the city of Quillagua provide insights into the Coquimbos’ past, showcasing their architectural and urban planning skills. Their legacy endures in the region’s cultural identity, blending indigenous traditions with the influences of Spanish colonization and modern Chilean society.