Osorno was founded in 1558 by the Spanish governor García Hurtado de Mendoza and the economy is based largely on stockbreeding and farming.
The Municipal Historic Museum is a fantastically restored place to review the history of the city and exhibitions about Mapuche culture, the origins of the city, and the history associated with German colonization.
The aim of Osorno is being recognized as a "city park". The most important of them is Chuyaca Park, located on the banks of Damas River in the main entry of the city. The Pleistocene Park is inside Chuyaca and features animal sculptures representing fossils dating back 12,500 years ago which were found in Pilauco Alto.
There is swimming pool for up to 800 people and an amusement area. ln the summer time there are different type of activities and outdoor markets.
We recommend different placesto walk along the Reina Luisa Fort is another attractive place to visit abd see historical toy characters and miniature models. Visit the Main Square (Plaza de Armas) and enjoy the Bull Sculpture and the illuminated fountain.
The artisan village on Mackenna Street, the recently restored Central Market, and the city's casino are all located in an attractive German-styled street with many cafés and restaurants. Go shopping along Mackenna and Ramirez streets where you can shop in the best stores and find the best deals. Or shop on Lynch Street, a more traditional area, which is a hotspot in the city to buy whatever you want.
The architectonic heritage also involves the old train station which is currently an interactive museum. The San Mateo Cathedral and the San Francisco Church, including six typical wooden houses, date backto the 19th century and were declared national monuments. They are located on Mackenna and Cochrane streets.
The most important events are milk and meat festivals, SagoFisur stockbreeding market, and the Folk Festival.Moreover, it is necessary
to include the Independence Days activities and food tastings.
The city is an important link for the Puyehue, Rupanco and Llanquihue Lake systems. From San Juan de la Costa adn going
northward it is possible to see the Lago Ranco province and the Los Ríos region.
