SANTIAGO DE CHILI, capital of the republic of Chili, and of a province of the same name, an archbishop's see, and the seat of the supreme government, stands at the western base of the Andes, 1800 ft. above sea-level, and 90 m. e.s,e. of Valparaiso. It was founded in 1541 by Pedro de Valdivia, but it has only recently acquired importance. Its climate is delightful; the plain on which it stands is extensive, and fertile in vines, figs, melons, and other fruits, and the scenery, looking toward the range of the Andes, is of the grandest description. The valley or plain of Santiago is sprinkled with tasteful villas and well-cultivated farms. The city is arranged in squares, and the houses are generally low, and are built around a court or garden, which is intended as a place of refuge during the earthquakes that frequently occur here. But of late years it has become the fashion, in spite of the earthquakes, to build costly houses of two, three, and even four stories, with a façade toward the street. The Alameda, shaded with poplars, and cooled by two streams of running water, is a pleasant promenade.
The mint. a portion of which serves as one of the president's palaces. and as offices for the ministers, is the handsomest of the public buildings, many of which, however, are beautiful structures. The university comprises the five faculties of philosophy, mathe matics and physical sciences, medicine, law, and theology. There are important edu cational institutions (including a normal school). and a library and museum. On the west side of the great square, which is adorned with a fine fountain, is the cathedral. On Dec. 8, 1863. one of its churches, that of La Compania, was destroyed by fire during service, and 2,000 out of the 3.000 of the congregation—the victims being mostly women—met a dreadful death. Gold, silver, and lead are exported, and the imports are chiefly manufactured goods, wines, and spirits. The chief trade is with Valparaiso by the Valparaiso and Santiago railway, opened in 1863. Pop. '75, 148,264. Area of prov ince, 9,000 sq.m.; pop. '75, 362,712.