Ancud, a vibrant city in the northern reaches of Chiloé Island, Chile, is nestled at the island’s northwest tip, overlooking the picturesque Gulf of Corcovado to the east. This bustling port is not only a vital maritime hub but also a treasure trove of historical and cultural heritage. The cityscape is a charming blend of traditional wooden shingle houses and narrow, winding streets, seamlessly merging Spanish colonial architecture with the intricate craftsmanship of the local indigenous people.
Fort San Antonio, a relic from the late colonial era, stands as a testament to Ancud’s military past. Its well-preserved gun emplacements and wall ruins offer visitors a breathtaking panoramic view of the bay, making it a must-see for history enthusiasts. (Figure 5-10)
The Local Museum, also known as the Blue Museum, is a captivating repository of Chiloé Island’s rich heritage. It houses an impressive collection that includes exhibits on indigenous culture, marine ecology, and historical artifacts such as ship models and a striking blue whale skeleton. (Figure 18)
When planning your departure from Chiloé Island, it’s crucial to consider the location of your accommodation in Ancud to choose the most convenient bus company. I opted for a company that operates from the main bus station, only to find it was a bit of a distance from my lodging. In a moment of serendipity, a kind gentleman on the roadside offered me a ride in his pickup truck, driving me directly to my reserved accommodation.
(Figure 15) Throughout my journey, I was consistently impressed by the warmth and hospitality of the locals, who often greeted me with friendly smiles and were always eager to lend a helping hand whenever I faced any challenges. Their kindness left a lasting impression on me, and I am deeply grateful for their generosity.
Figure 16 depicts the fruit of the tree shown in Figure 17, commonly known as pine nuts. These sizable nuts are unique in that they cannot be eaten raw; instead, they require roasting or boiling. The flavor is subtle, lacking the robust aroma of more familiar pine nuts. The skin is thin, soft, and pliable, while the flesh is dry.
Many fruits in this region of South America share this characteristic: they are large but have a mild taste. Similarly, the local corn, though ample in size, lacks the sweetness found in other varieties, offering a similarly mild flavor.
