Images of Chile
and lakes. The southern coast is a labyrinth of fjords, inlets, canals, twisting peninsulas, and
islands.
Prior to the coming of the Spanish in the 16th century, northern Chile was under Inca rule
while the indigenous Araucanians inhabited central and southern Chile. Although Chile
declared its independence in 1810, decisive victory over the Spanish was not achieved until
1818. Currently, Chile is one of South America's most stable and prosperous nations.
The national flower is the copihue (Chilean bellflower), which grows in the woods of
southern Chile. The coat of arms depicts the two national animals: the condor and the huemul.
Chile's most popular sport is association football Chile has appeared in seven FIFA World
Cups which includes hosting the 1962 FIFA World Cup where the national football team
finished third.
The main attractions for tourists are places of natural beauty situated in the extreme zones of