Puerto Octay facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Puerto Octay
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Town and Commune
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| Country | Chile | ||||
| Region | Los Lagos | ||||
| Province | Osorno | ||||
| Founded | 22 December 1891 | ||||
| Government | |||||
| • Type | Municipality | ||||
| Area | |||||
| • Total | 1,795.7 km2 (693.3 sq mi) | ||||
| Population
(2002 Census)
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| • Total | 10,236 | ||||
| • Density | 5.7003/km2 (14.7637/sq mi) | ||||
| • Urban | 3,403 | ||||
| • Rural | 6,833 | ||||
| Sex | |||||
| • Men | 5,391 | ||||
| • Women | 4,845 | ||||
| Time zone | UTC-4 (CLT) | ||||
| • Summer (DST) | UTC-3 (CLST) | ||||
| Area code(s) | 56 + 64 | ||||
| Climate | Cfb | ||||
| Website | Municipality of Puerto Octay | ||||
Puerto Octay is a charming town and commune located in the south of Chile. You can find it on the northern shore of Llanquihue Lake in the Los Lagos Region. This area is part of the Osorno Province.
German settlers first arrived here in 1852. Before 1912, when the railway opened, Puerto Octay was a very busy port. Boats regularly traveled between Puerto Octay and Puerto Varas.
Contents
History of Puerto Octay
The town of Puerto Octay began with German settlers in 1852. This settlement was encouraged by Bernhard Eunom Philippi. Over the years, it grew into one of the most important ports on Lake Llanquihue.
On December 22, 1891, Puerto Octay officially became a municipality. This happened during the time when Jorge Montt was the President of Chile.
German Heritage and Architecture
Puerto Octay is famous for its beautiful and diverse buildings. Most of these buildings are made of wood. They show the history of the German families who settled here in the mid-1800s. The Chilean government encouraged this settlement.
Some of the well-known buildings include the Niklitschek House, Hotel Haase, Wulf House, the current Colegio San Vicente de Paul, and Werner House. It's amazing that these buildings are still standing and in good condition after more than 100 years!
To protect these special buildings, Puerto Octay is working to become a "Typical Zone." This means a specific area will be recognized for its unique identity and history. The Chilean government will then legally protect it.
Animals and Plants of Puerto Octay
Puerto Octay is home to many interesting animals.
Birds of the Region
You can spot different kinds of birds here. These include thrushes, doves, parrots, and kestrels. You might also see herons, sparrows, and swallows. Sadly, the rooster from the mountain is now extinct in this area.
Mammals and Fish
Some mammals living here are the cougar and the nutria. In the waters, you might find mackerel and trout. Native salmon used to live here, but they are now locally extinct.
Fun Things to Do in Puerto Octay
If you love lakes and outdoor activities, Puerto Octay is a great place to visit! Lake Llanquihue has lovely beaches perfect for relaxing. You can also enjoy fishing and various water sports.
Some popular spots around the lake include Rupanco Islet, La Baja, Puerto Maitén, and Fonck. These places are ideal for a fun vacation by the water.
About the People of Puerto Octay
According to a census from 2002, Puerto Octay covers an area of about 1,795.7 square kilometers (about 693 square miles). At that time, 10,236 people lived here.
Out of these residents, 5,391 were men and 4,845 were women. About 3,403 people (33.2%) lived in the town area, which is considered urban. The other 6,833 people (66.8%) lived in the countryside, which is considered rural. Between 1992 and 2002, the population decreased by 815 people.
How Puerto Octay is Governed
Puerto Octay is a commune, which is like a local government area in Chile. It is managed by a municipal council. The head of this council is the alcalde, also known as the mayor. The mayor is chosen directly by the people in an election every four years.
The mayor and the municipal council work together to make decisions for the community. They help manage local services and make sure the town runs smoothly.
See also
In Spanish: Puerto Octay para niños
