| Iquique
was initially a small village of Chango Indians who
subsisted on fishing and trade. The town grew in significance
following the Spanish invasion due to the wealth of
minerals and nitrate in the area. Iquique in due course
became one of the country's main nitrate ports and a
strong infrastructure was developed. Today Iquique has
a population of approximately 140,000 and fishing is
once again the most important industry. The city is
also well identified for its shopping and duty free
zone which attracts Chileans from all over the country.
The tour begins through the large coastline, its peninsula
and its beautiful beaches. Then there is also the historical
centre and the architectonical handsomeness of its avenues,
framed by superb houses which were constructed in the
late 19th century, dressed up with a shining Oregon
pine wood. Among them stands out the majestic and overwhelming
Teatro Municipal, and the Palacio Astoreca, a museum
in whose facilities is located the Casa de la Cultura.
Another attraction is the exotic edifice of the Centro
Español, in a Moorish style with stucco and polychrome
woods. The Dock is also a place with a past of naval
glory. There is the monument to the 'Unknown Sailor'
within the famous inlet of Iquique and the Módulos
de Zofri, a shopping plaza.
Worldtravel4indians.com provides information on Iquique
Chile Tours and different tours around Chile.
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