Valparaíso

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Valparaíso Main port of Chile and capital of Valparaíso region, 100km (60mi) w of Santiago. Founded in 1536, Valparaíso has always been vulnerable to earthquakes. As well as Chile's chief port, it is also a cultural centre, with two universities and museums of fine arts and natural history. Industries: chemicals, textiles, sugar refining, vegetable oils, paint. Pop. (1999) 285,000.

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