Valdivia

Valdivia is a city and commune in southern Chile, and the capital of the Los Ríos Region as well as the seat of Valdivia Province. It lies at the confluence of the Calle-Calle and Valdivia rivers, about 15 kilometers inland from the Pacific Ocean. The climate is temperate oceanic, with abundant rainfall and lush surroundings in the Valdivian temperate rainforest.

Founded in 1552 by the Spanish conquistador Pedro de Valdivia and named after him, it developed as a strategic port and fortification during the colonial era. The city has endured earthquakes throughout its history; notably the 1960 Valdivia earthquake, the strongest ever recorded, which triggered tsunamis and caused widespread damage.

Today Valdivia is known for its academic and cultural institutions. The Universidad Austral de Chile is a major center for forestry, marine biology, and engineering. The city hosts the Valdivia International Film Festival (FICValdivia) and preserves German-influenced architecture along the riverfront. The Mercado Fluvial and riverfront areas are popular with residents and visitors. The economy combines river port activity with forestry, wood products, fishing and aquaculture, and growing service sectors. The surrounding region is important for environmental research and the preservation of the Valdivian temperate rainforest.