Rere, Chile facts for kids
Rere is a town in the Biobío Region of Chile. It is part of the Yumbel area. The town's name comes from the Moluche language. This was spoken by an indigenous group. They lived on both sides of the Claro River.
In 1603, a fort was built here. It was named Nuestra Señora de la Buena Esperanza. Later, in 1765, the town of Villa de San Luis Gonzaga de Rere was founded. This was done by Governor Antonio de Guill y Gonzaga. Today, Rere is about 21 km west of Yumbel.
A Look Back: Rere's History
Early Days and the Fort
Rere's story began during a long conflict. This was between the Spanish and the Mapuches. The Spanish wanted to build cities. They also wanted to take land. But they faced strong resistance from the Mapuche people. This was especially true near the Bio Bio River.
Around 1603, a new governor arrived in Chile. His name was Alonso de Ribera. He saw that previous efforts had failed. So, he made a new plan. He decided to build many forts. These forts would be along the Biobío River.
One of these forts was built in Rere. It was needed to store food and animals. These were taken from the land. The fort was built mainly for defense. It was not for attacking. Its location by the Biobío River was important. It could help other nearby outposts. It also served as a safe place to retreat if needed.
Rere's Changing Role
Rere was once a very important place. It was the capital of a region called the Corregimiento de Rere. Later, it became the capital of the Partido de Rere. This area was part of the Intendencia de Concepción. In 1823, it changed again. It became the Delegación de Rere.
After that, it was the capital of the Departamento de Rere. This was part of the Provincia de Concepción. Over time, the main administrative office moved to Yumbel.
In 1891, a new law was passed. It created municipalities. The Municipio de San Luis Gonzaga was formed. Its area covered the San Luis Gonzaga subdelegation of the Rere department.
Later, in 1927, another change happened. The Department of Yumbel was created. It took over most of the Rere Department's territory.
