Iquique

Iquique, the port and capital of the Chilian territory of Tarapacá (Peruvian till 1881). It has amalgamating works in connection with neighbouring silver-mines, a foundry, and exports saltpetre, borax, and iodine. The climate is hot, and drinking-water has to be obtained by distillation. Earthquakes have more than once damaged the town. The roadstead is safe, and a mole has been built. Pop. (1876) 11,717; (1895) 33,031.