Ancud

About

Ancud was founded by the Spanish in 1778 as a “city-fort” to serve as the capital of Chiloé archipelago and guard Patagonia against foreign powers. The city held true to its purpose and remained the last stronghold of the Spaniards in the Americas, serving as the seat of their government-in-exile until 1826. Today, this bustling fishing port is the perfect place to prepare for exploring Chiloé and its UNESCO-listed churches. At the small Churches of Chiloé Museum, you’ll get an introduction to these wooden wonders, including cutaway models and displays demonstrating their nailless construction. Fort San Antonio, offers a look at Ancud’s colonial origins, and great views of the bay from the well-preserved battery. If shopping is more your thing, the Feria Rural y Artesanal is a great place to pick up local handicrafts or for a seafood lunch. From September to March it’s also possible to arrange an excursion to the nearby Pingüineras de Puñihuil penguin colony (you’ll want to extend your stop to at least 4 hours).