Los Ángeles is the capital of the Bío Bío province within the eponymous commune, situated in the central-southern region of Chile. Positioned between the Laja and Biobío rivers,
The municipality of Los Ángeles boasts the highest absolute rural population among all Chilean municipalities.
Brief History of Los Angeles
Established in 1739 by José Antonio Manso de Velasco under the name Nuestra Señora de Los Ángeles, which means “Our Lady of the Angels”, the city originated as a Spanish fort serving as an outpost in the War of Arauco, by 1748 the village grew to a status of a villa.
The city experienced multiple reconstructions due to Spanish military initiatives against the indigenous Mapuche population, part of the broader colonization efforts in the region. Its strategic position just north of the Biobío River, established as a border by the Spaniards, contributed to its significance.
In 1858, amidst the German immigration wave in Chile, Colonia Humán emerged. This settlement, populated by German immigrants from Germany and the Austro-Hungarian Empire, became fully integrated within the present urban boundaries of the city.
Los Angeles Facts and Figures
Name | Los Angeles (Los Ángeles) |
Founded As | Villa de Nuestra Señora de Los Ángeles |
Named After | Our Lady, Queen of the Angels |
Founded Date | 26th of May, 1739 |
Total Area | 1,748.2 km2 |
Estimated Population | 128,933 |
Elevation | 139 m above sea level |
Official Website | https://www.losangeles.cl/ |
