Chilca, Cañete facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Chilca
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Town
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View of the city
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 Chilca, Cañete
Location in Peru
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| Country |  Peru |
| Region | Lima |
| Province | Cañete |
| Area | |
| • Total | 475.47 km2 (183.58 sq mi) |
| Elevation | 78 m (255 ft) |
| Population
(2017)
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| • Total | 21,573 |
| • Density | 45.3719/km2 (117.513/sq mi) |
| Demonym(s) | Chilcano/a |
| Time zone | UTC-5 (PET) |
| • Summer (DST) | UTC-5 (PET) |
| Website | [1] |
Chilca is a city in Peru, located in the Lima Region. It is the main town of the Chilca District. About 21,573 people live here, according to 2017 numbers. The city is known for its interesting history and special natural features.
Contents
A Look Back in Time: Chilca's History
Chilca is a very old place! It is built on what was once called the "old village of Chilca." This village dates back to about 7000 BC. That means people were living here thousands of years ago!
This area was once a fishing village right by the sea. It has a wide beach and an old Catholic church cemetery. Chilca is also famous for growing lots of figs and pomegranates.
Healing Lakes of Chilca
Chilca is also known for its special lakes. Locals believe these lakes have healing powers. People say the waters can help with skin problems, bone issues, and even high blood pressure. Some also believe they can help with fertility.
In 1770, a French explorer named Jean-François-Marie de Surville sadly drowned off the coast. He was buried right here in Chilca.
The Miraculous Lake: La Milagrosa
The most important lake in Chilca is called La Milagrosa. Its other name is Qoricocha, which means "gold pond" in the Quechua language. The water in this lake comes from underground and has many minerals.
What's in the Water?
The water contains minerals like sodium chloride (salt), sulfate, and calcium carbonate. People believe these minerals are good for chronic joint pain, like rheumatism. The black mud found here is also said to make your skin feel better and look healthier.
La Milagrosa lake is about 200 meters long and 50 meters wide. Around the main lake, there are many smaller, shallow pools. Visitors often cover themselves with the special mud from these pools. There are different types of clay mud available.
Stories of Healing
Many people share stories about how the water and mud from these baths have helped them. Some visitors come regularly for years. They say they have been cured of illnesses or felt much better after starting their treatments. For example, Enrique Rueda, who was mayor of the district twice, has heard many happy and grateful stories from people who visited the lakes and felt cured.
Fun Times: Festivals and Traditions
Chilca has some exciting events throughout the year!
Fig Festival
Every February, the locals celebrate the Fig Festival. This is a fun time to enjoy the delicious figs grown in the area.
Surfing and Celebrations
Chilca's beaches have big waves, which makes them popular with surfers. Many surfers visit the city to enjoy the waves.
On August 15, there is a special event called the procession of Our Lady of Assumption of Mary. This is a big festival where people gather to have fun and show respect for the Virgin Mary.
See also
In Spanish: Chilca (Cañete) para niños
