City and Country: The Two Faces of Rancagua

Rancagua, whose name means "place of reeds," is the perfect combination of city and country. Founded in 1743, it made its mark on Chilean history as the setting of the Battle of Rancagua in 1814 during the War for Independence. Today this "country city" has become one of the nation's most important agricultural hubs, especially for fruit and winegrowing. Mining is also a major industry here.

Rancagua exudes history. Start by exploring the downtown area, which is home to the famous Iglesia de La Merced, where national hero Bernardo O'Higgins took refuge during the Battle of Rancagua. Don't miss the Casa del Pilar de Esquina, a colonial building that is now part of the Museo Regional de Rancagua, and the Plaza de Los Héroes, which was the scene of a bloody battle between Chilean and Spanish forces.

Rancagua strikes the perfect balance between Chile's cultural traditions and its rural pleasures. It is the home of Chilean festivals such as the National Rodeo Championship, which has been held each April since 1949 in the city's riding arena before some ten thousand spectators. Year after year, the riders' skills are put to the test in events such as steer wrestling.

 

Featured Destinations

Cajón del Maipo		Pirque
Pomaire		Rancagua
Santa Cruz

Touristic Services

Accommodation		Car Rental
Intercity Transportation		Tourism Agencies

Tours you can do

Andes		El Morado
World Heritage - Sewell		San Francisco de los Andes

 

Getting There By Bus Buses depart daily from: • Terminal Alameda: Av. Bernardo O'Higgins 3570, Universidad de Santiago Metro Station. Phone: (56-2) 7762424 • Terminal Santiago (formerly Terminal Sur): Alameda & Nicasio Retamales, 150 meters west of Terminal Alameda. Phone: (56-2) 3761750 Local buses connect the city to other local destinations. By Car Take Ruta 5 Sur from Santiago (1 hour).

 

Tips

01 Metrotren From Santiago, take the Metrotren from Estación Central. Consult the timetable for departure times.