The fertile and bountiful region of Coquimbo is 40,580 km2, and the capital, La Serena, is the country’s second-oldest city. With a total population of 603,210, the region enjoys ideal conditions which allow for a range of economic activities, most notably mining, farming, fi sheries, and tourism. These prolifi c valleys grow the grapes used to produce pisco, Chile’s foremost distillate, as well as olives used in the production of world-class extra virgin olive oil. The region’s outstanding infrastructure ensures economic growth and keeps it well connected to leading domestic and foreign markets. Coquimbo is a natural resource-rich region with mining, services, construction, forestry, and agriculture as the leading economic activities, supported by a strong export industry. Awash in secluded beaches and perfect spots for water sports, its vast coastline is a leading source of the superb marine products for which Chile is renowned the world over. Known for strikingly limpid skies yearround, scientifi c organizations from around the world have chosen Coquimbo to set up some of the most important international observatories in existence.