Culture and Customs
Chile Culture is very rich and is largely influenced by the European heritage that prevails in the cultural structure of the country from the very beginning of the establishment. Chile has always been one of the most progressive countries in America in the field of art and culture
The inhabitants of the country are a combination of both indigenous groups and Spanish. This has been the result for the country being occupied by the Spaniards for a long period. Roman Catholic is the religion that most of the population follows. The natives are culturally very rich and enjoy doing several cultural activities. Spanish is the most commonly spoken language in Chile, though English language, learning and teaching is popular among students, academics and professionals. A number of gap year volunteers get involved with teaching English particularly in the rural areas of Chile where resources are scarce.
Art & Literature
Chile's most famous contributions to literature have come from Nobel Prize poets Pablo Neruda and Gabriela Mistral, whose homes and birthplaces are now museums that attract literary pilgrims to Chile. Many gap year volunteers to Chile include a visit to the museums.
Chile Culture And Customs Chilean music, particularly folk music, has had international acclaim since the 1960s, when Violeta Parra and her children Angel and Isabel made their names as politically committed singers and songwriters. Folk music has been an especially important outlet for the country's oppressed, and was frequently performed overseas by exiles during Pinochet's reign. until the military coup of 1973, its cinema was among the most experimental in Latin America
The cueca is the national dance. It originates from peasant folklore and some sources believe that it emerged as a symbol of the newborn republic in rebellion against the Spanish crown. Man and woman dance to the classic rhythm, twirling their kerchiefs in the air.
The most important festival in the Norte Grande region takes place in the small town of La Tirana. Each year, from the 12th through the 18th of July, some 40.000 believers arrive to celebrate the Virgin of Carmel, Chile's patron saint. Activities include songs and dances that seem to go on 24 hours a day for the whole week of ceremonies.
The annual Festival Internacional de la Canción (International Song Festival), in Viña del Mar is an extremely popular event with gap year travellers. In February, the liveliest musicians from every Latino country flock to the beautiful outdoor amphitheater, Quinta Vergara, and surrounding public park for a week of song, dance, and limitless fiesta.
Chilean cuisine is a reflection of the country's topographical variety, featuring an assortment of sea food, beef, fruits, and vegetables. Traditional recipes include include cazuela, empanadas, humitas and curanto. Living with a Chilean family gives our gap year volunteers in Chile an opportunity to sample some local cuisine.
Chile Culture And Customs Description of any country in South America would be incomplete without the mention of sports. Association football (soccer) is Chile’s most popular sport. The varied landscapes also give the option of pursuing popular sports like skiing and surfing.