Talcahuano is a port city in the Bío Bío Region of Chile. It is the capital of the Concepción Province and is located about 460 kilometers (290 mi) south of Santiago, the country's capital. The commune of Talcahuano has an area of 765.8 km2 (295.8 sq mi) and a population of 245,927 (2012).
The city is an important seaport, connecting the country's central valley with the Pacific Ocean. The port has a long and complicated history, and has been attacked by several British, French, and Spanish fleets. Today, it is a key entry point for Chilean exports.
Talcahuano is also an important educational center, home to the Universidad de Concepción, the country's second-largest university. The city is known for its nightlife, and for its many seafood restaurants.
