Chile
Chile
- Capital
- Santiago
- Population
- 19,116,209
- Region
- Americas
- Languages
- Spanish
Chile is home to the world's oldest mummies, belonging to the Chinchorro people, which predate the Egyptians by thousands of years. The country also preserves the Atacama Giant, the largest prehistoric anthropomorphic figure in the world carved into the desert floor. In the town of Algarrobo, you can find one of the largest swimming pools on Earth, covering 20 acres and holding 66 million gallons of seawater. Additionally, central Chile's unique climate makes it one of the few places on the planet where you can find the rare, towering Chilean Wine Palm.
Currency
The official currency is the Chilean Peso, identified by the ISO code CLP. Between 1960 and 1975, the peso was temporarily replaced by the 'Escudo' as part of an effort to manage high inflation before the nation eventually returned to its traditional decimalized peso system.
Flag symbolism
The Chilean flag, known as 'La Estrella Solitaria,' features a blue square representing the clear skies and the Pacific Ocean. The single white star serves as a guide to progress and honor, while also symbolizing a mandate for the country's unitary government. The white horizontal stripe represents the snow-capped peaks of the Andes Mountains. Finally, the red stripe stands for the blood of the heroes who fought for independence and the courage of the Chilean people.
Emblem history
The national coat of arms features a shield topped by a tricolor crest of feathers, which were traditionally worn on the hats of former presidents as a mark of distinction. On the left stands a huemul, a rare South Andean deer, representing the strength of the mountains. On the right, a condor signifies the majestic power of the skies and the nation's far-reaching vision. Beneath the animals, a ribbon displays the motto 'Por la razón o la fuerza,' which reflects Chile's historical commitment to justice and its readiness to defend its sovereignty.