THE PORT OF COQUIMBO, THE CITY OF LA SERENA AND THE WINE HERITAGE OF THE SOUTHERN CONE (1536-1600)

This article examines the role of Coquimbo as a gateway to Chile in the first years of Spanish colonization and in the origins of the wine heritage of the Southern Cone of America, both in Chile and in present-day Argentina. The conditions that made possible its early consolidation as the main port for high seas ships are investigated. The contribution of indigenous peoples is considered, both in the marine culture with its wolf rafts, and in the culture of water, irrigation and agriculture. The motives of the Spaniards to found La Serena early, and the role played by its port in the reception of the main fleets of the time are also examined. The study is made from documents of the time, especially the letters and the chronicles, all confronted with the specialized bibliography, particularly with the monumental work of Vazquez de Acufia. It is concluded that the port of Coquimbo was the main gate of the Kingdom of Chile in its founding decades, and through it the ships loaded with settlers, plants and animals that contributed to the process of colonization of Chile, including the origins of regional viticulture.