Los Vilos facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Los Vilos
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| Country |  Chile |
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| Region |  Coquimbo |
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| Province | Choapa | |||
| Founded | 1835 | |||
| Declared Harbor | 1855 | |||
| Government | ||||
| • Type | Municipality | |||
| Area | ||||
| • Total | 1,860.6 km2 (718.4 sq mi) | |||
| Elevation | 11 m (36 ft) | |||
| Population
(2012 Census)
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| • Total | 18,275 | |||
| • Density | 9.8221/km2 (25.4391/sq mi) | |||
| • Urban | 12,859 | |||
| • Rural | 4,594 | |||
| Demonym(s) | vileño(a) | |||
| Sex | ||||
| • Men | 8,858 | |||
| • Women | 8,595 | |||
| Time zone | UTC−4 (CLT) | |||
| • Summer (DST) | UTC−3 (CLST) | |||
| Area code(s) | 56 + 53 | |||
| Website | Municipality of Los Vilos | |||
Los Vilos is a coastal city in Chile. Its name comes from the Mapuche language word Filu, which means 'snake'.
Los Vilos is both a city and a commune. It is located in the Choapa Province, which is part of the Coquimbo Region. The city has a population of over 18,000 people.
One important part of Los Vilos is its harbor, called Puerto Punta Chungo. This harbor is used to ship materials from the nearby Los Pelambres mine. Fishing is also a major activity here.
Los Vilos is a popular place for tourism. Many visitors come to enjoy its two main beaches: La Principal and Las Conchas. The city is about 246 kilometers (153 miles) from both La Serena and Santiago. It was founded in 1830 and became a minor harbor in 1855.
Contents
History of Los Vilos
Los Vilos started as a small settlement around 1835. The government realized they needed a port in this area. A port would help expand trade and business across the country.
Becoming a Port City
On January 3, 1855, Los Vilos was officially declared a minor port. This decision was made by the president at the time, Manuel Montt. Soon after, permission was given to build a dock, warehouses, and other buildings for trade.
In December 1857, it was decided that a proper town should be built. So, 25 blocks of land were set aside and sold for public use. This new town grew around the small settlement that was already there. The port helped control trade in the area, and a customs office was set up. Because of this, the economy of Los Vilos first grew mostly from trade.
Population and Demographics
Understanding the population of a place helps us learn about its people. A census is a count of all the people living in an area.
Who Lives in Los Vilos?
According to the 2002 census, Los Vilos covers an area of 1,860.6 square kilometers (718.4 sq mi). At that time, it had 17,453 inhabitants.
- There were 8,858 men and 8,595 women.
- Most people, about 12,859 (73.7%), lived in urban areas (cities and towns).
- The rest, 4,594 people (26.3%), lived in rural areas (the countryside).
How Los Vilos is Managed
Los Vilos is a commune, which is a type of local government area in Chile. It is managed by a municipal council.
Local Government Leaders
The municipal council is led by an alcalde, who is like a mayor. The alcalde is chosen by the people in an election every four years.
The current alcalde of Los Vilos is Manuel Marcarián Julio. The municipal council also has several members who help make decisions for the commune. These members include:
- Christian Gross Hidalgo
- Iris Hidalgo
- Juan Hisi Espinoza
- Berta Martínez
- Héctor Molina Fuenzalida
- Julio Werner
Fun Things to Do in Los Vilos
Los Vilos is a great place for tourism. Many people visit the area to enjoy its beautiful coastlines and activities.
Popular Tourist Spots
Besides Los Vilos city itself, another popular coastal town for tourists is Pichidangui. Both places offer lovely beaches and a chance to relax by the sea.
See also
In Spanish: Los Vilos para niños
