Punta Arenas

Seaport and capital of Magellanes region, southern Chile; situated on the eastern shore of the Brunswick Peninsula facing the Magellan Straits, and almost equidistant from the Pacific and Atlantic oceans; population (2002) 116,000. It is the southernmost city in Chile and the centre of a sheep-farming region. Exports include wool, lamb and mutton, and oil. Fishing and tourism are important. Punta Arenas was founded in the 19th century as a penal colony.

Its geographical location has enabled an important fishing industry to thrive. In addition, the creation of a free zone has permitted commercial enterprises to grow and has encouraged significant immigration to the city and region. Tourism is also important as the city serves as a base for Antarctic expeditions and local travel to the Parque Nacional Torres del Paine.