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Introducing Chilecito
With a gorgeous situation among low rocky hills and sizable snowcapped peaks, Chilecito is the province’s second-largest settlement but nevertheless is just a small town. There are several interesting things to see, including the amazing cableway leading to a mine high in the sierra. It also makes a base for longer excursions to the Parque Nacional Talampaya or the remote hot springs at Fiambalá. With the intense heat, mining heritage and slopes around town dotted with cardón cactus, Chilecito can have a Wild West feel to it at times and is definitely the most appealing place to spend a few quiet days in this part of the country.
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Founded as Villa Santa Rita in 1715 by Domingo de Castro y Bazán, who had been granted the land, it was little more than a hamlet until the mining took off in the late 19th century. It acquired the name Chilecito (Little Chile) because many from that country crossed the Andes to come and work the mines here.
Last updated: Feb 17, 2009
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