Chillán
Chillán is the capital city of the Ñuble Region in the Diguillín Province of Chile, The Ñuble Region was established on the 6th of September 2015, and spans an area of 13,178.5 km2, making it the smallest region in Chile by area.
Chillán was founded in 1580 by the Spanish conquistador Martín Ruiz de Gamboa. The name “Chillán” is derived from the Mapuche language and means “seated on the moon.”
Chillán is the birthplace of Bernardo O’Higgins Riquelme, Bernardo is one of Chile’s most prominent historical figures and a key leader in the country’s struggle for independence.
Chillán was an important centre of agricultural and trade activities, serving as a gateway between the southern and central regions of Chile. However, its history is also marked by natural disasters, with devastating earthquakes and volcanic eruptions reshaping the city and its surroundings.
A 2021 study identified the Ñuble Region as one of the three Chilean regions with a heightened vulnerability to nepotism and elite capture.
Administration
Chillán is the capital of the Ñuble Region, which was established in 2018 as a result of the administrative division of the Bío Bío Region.
The municipality is responsible for providing essential services, infrastructure development, and cultural programs, ensuring the well-being of its residents.
Chillán’s efficient governance has also made it an attractive destination for investors and businesses, contributing to its economic stability.