Malleco River facts for kids
The Malleco River is an important river in central Chile. It flows through the Malleco Province in the La Araucanía Region. This river is well-known for its beautiful scenery and a famous bridge called the Malleco Viaduct. It plays a key role in the local environment and history.
About the Malleco River
The Malleco River is a major waterway in Chile. It is a main branch of the Vergara River. The Vergara River then flows into the larger Biobío River. This means the Malleco River is part of a big river system that carries water across a large area.
Where Does It Start?
The Malleco River begins high up in the Andes mountains. Its source is on the western side of these tall mountains. You can find its starting point inside the Tolhuaca National Park. It is also very close to the Tolhuaca Volcano.
After starting near the volcano, the river flows past the Tolhuaca area. It then creates a stunning 50-meter-tall waterfall. This waterfall is a beautiful natural feature of the river. From there, the Malleco River continues its journey towards the Pacific Ocean.
The Malleco Viaduct
One of the most famous landmarks along the Malleco River is the Malleco Viaduct. This is a very old and impressive railroad bridge. It was built a long time ago, in 1890. When it was finished, it was the highest railroad bridge in the entire world!
The Malleco Viaduct is still a very important structure today. It is so special that it is being considered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This means it could be recognized globally for its historical and engineering importance. It stands as a symbol of amazing engineering from the past.
See also
In Spanish: Río Malleco para niños
