Isla Grande de Chiloe a verdant patchwork of undulating hills, is 180krn long but just 50km wide, and surrounded by smaller islands. Most of the towns and farming are on the eastern side, while the western shores are nearly roadless and the interior still thick in forest. Nearly all the 130,000 chilotes (residents of Chiloo) live within sight of the sea. More than half make their living from farming, but many also depend on fishing. Ancud and Castro are the only large towns. Throughout the island, in towns and along hillsides, are distinctive shingled houses and characteristic wooden churches, some up to 200 years old.
Huilliche Indians first raised potatoes and other crops in the fertile volcanic soil. Jesuits were among the earliest European settlers, but mainland refugees arrived after the Mapuche uprising of 1599. A Spanish royalist stronghold, Chiloe resisted criollo attacks on Ancud until 1826.
Chiloe is one of the country's poorest areas, and perpetual hardship has forced many chilotes to leave. A rich folkloric tradition has contributed to Chilean literature, but to some urban dwellers, 'chilote I is synonymous with 'bumpkin.' In part, this reputation derives from insularity, which in turn has encouraged self-reliance, courtesy and hospitality that enchants. Images and references to chilote folklore pepper the island.
Top Attractions
Museo Regional de Ancud
Fuerte San Antonio
Mercado Municipal
Chiloe Hotels
Camping Arena Gruesa
Hospedaje Vista at Mar
Casa del Apostulado
Residencial Maria Carolina
Hospedaje O'Higgins
Hospedaje Capri Hotel
Hospedaje Germania
Hospedaje Alto Bellavista
Hospedaje Reuter Miranda Hotel
Hostal Liuhay
Hotel Madryn
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