Why Longaví
Located in the geographical center of Chile, Longaví is a city and commune within the Linares Province of the Maule Region. Its name originates from the Mapudungun language, translating to snake's head. Situated in the nation's fertile central plain, the city of Longaví rests along the left bank of the Liguay River. The overall commune spans an area of 1,453.8 square kilometers and shares borders with neighboring areas including Linares to the north, Retiro and Parral to the south, San Javier to the west, and Colbún to the east. Waterways define its boundaries, with the Achibueno River separating the area from Linares and the Longaví River dividing it from Retiro.
The history of the territory traces back to a large Jesuit estate established after the land was granted to the Society of Jesus in 1639. Following the expulsion of the Jesuits from South America in 1767, the property was acquired by Mateo Sotomayor. The village of Longaví was formally created in 1904, and the commune was officially founded several decades later in 1937. Culturally, the city is recognized as the birthplace of Arturo Alessandri Palma, a prominent Chilean politician and statesman who served twice as the President of Chile. Agriculture forms the core economic activity of the commune, with a primary emphasis on growing rice and other cereal crops.
Geographically, the eastern expanse of the commune transitions into the rugged foothills of the Andes. This mountainous terrain features rolling hills, lush forests, striking natural scenery, and a rich network of rivers and streams. The most prominent landmark in the region is Nevado de Longaví, a snow-capped stratovolcano noted for its distinct conical shape. Standing out among the surrounding peaks, this scenic volcano is visible across much of the central plain within Linares Province and neighboring territories.
Longaví sits approximately 316 kilometers south of the national capital of Santiago and 18 kilometers south of Linares, the provincial capital. Visitors and travelers can conveniently access the area via the Pan-American Highway, also designated as Ruta 5 Sur, which connects the commune to the rest of the country.
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