Collipulli, city and commune in southern Chile
Collipulli is a town in Malleco Province in the southern Araucanía region of Chile. The city sits along the Malleco River with quiet streets lined with modest houses and small shops, while nearby forests and open fields form its natural boundary.
Collipulli was founded in 1867 as a military stronghold to secure the region's settlement and manage territorial changes. The town grew from this fortified post into a permanent settlement, with bridges and infrastructure built to connect the area and support expansion.
Collipulli preserves strong links to Mapuche traditions, visible in local crafts, ceremonies, and daily community gatherings where people share stories and customs. These indigenous practices remain woven into the town's rhythm and identity, shaping how locals gather in markets and celebrate together.
The town is easily reached by car or bus from other parts of Chile and is best explored on foot or by bicycle to experience its slow pace. Streets are quiet and short, making it comfortable to walk at any pace and take in the surroundings.
The nearby Malleco Bridge is an impressively tall railway bridge designed by the same engineer who worked on the Eiffel Tower. This structure stands as a silent witness to the industrial heritage that shaped Collipulli and its region.
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