| Santiago (elevation 520 meters,
1,700 feet) is one of the most beautiful cities in South America.
Capital of Chile,
Santiago is home to nearly 40% of the nation's population.
NATURAL WORLD
The city is located in the country's central valley. The Mapocho
River crosses the city from the northeast to the southwest.
CITY PARKS
Santiago's largest park, Parque Metropolitano, boasts the Cerro
San Cristóbal (San Cristóbal Hill) which provides
a beautiful view of the city and, on clear days, the Andes Mountain.
Other recreational areas include Parque Forestal, located along
the Mapocho River and Cerro Santa Lucía.
POLITICS
Although Santiago is the capital, legislative bodies meet in
nearby Valparaíso.
CULTURAL WORLD
City museums include the Museo Chileno de Arte Precolumbino
and the Museo Chileno de Arte Precolumbino.
HISTORY
Santiago was founded by Pedro de Valdivia on February 12, 1541
with the name Santiago de Nueva Extremadura.
FESTIVALS
The city hosts an annual art fair in Parque Forestal in November.
MARKETS
City markets include the Mercado Central near the Mapocho River.
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