Dichato

Dichato is a coastal town located in the commune of Tomé in the Biobío Region, in central Chile. The town is located 37 kilometers north of the city of Concepción and has 3,488 inhabitants according to the 2002 census.

Its geography is a very closed bay, with calm but very cold waters, suitable for water sports, frequently visited in the summer. It has numerous restaurants specializing in seafood products and diverse hotel offerings, operating all year round, but mainly occupied in the summer season. During the rest of the year, its main productive activity is artisanal fishing, with picturesque boats.

The earthquake and tsunami of February 27, 2010 greatly affected Dichato, mainly its flat sector, where the force of the sea destroyed everything in its path.

Etymology

The word Dichato has Mapuche origin (File:Dichato4.JPG|Dichato Bay File:Dichatobandera.gif|Dichato Flag Image:Dichato 2006.jpg|Dichato in 2006

Scientific research

The Marine Biology Station of Dichato is located in the locality, which is dependent on the University of Concepción and was inaugurated on November 20, 1978. It houses scientific research facilities and a scientific boat, "Kay-Kay."