Talca (1998 pop. 187,745) is a city in Chile, and is the capital of both Talca Province and VII Maule Region.
The city was founded as San Agustín de Talca in 1692. It was destroyed by earthquakes in 1742 and 1928, being rebuilt each time. In 1818 Bernardo O'Higgins proclaimed the independence of Chile from Talca.
The city is an important economic center, with agricultural (wheat) and manufacturing activities, as well as the production of wine. It is also the location of the University of Talca and the Catholic University of Maule.
Chapi