what is the capital of chile

The capital of Chile is Santiago, also known as Santiago de Chile. Santiago is the largest city in Chile and one of the largest cities in the Americas, with a population of 7 million in the Santiago Metropolitan Region, representing 40% of Chiles total population. Santiago was founded in 1541 by the Spanish conquistador Pedro de Valdivia and has served as the capital city of Chile since colonial times. It is the political and financial center of Chile and home to the regional stock exchange, major banks, and many insurance companies. Santiago is also a thriving metropolis with a mix of neoclassical, art deco, and other architectural styles, as well as parks and hills that shape the cityscape.