Mocha Island

Mocha Island is a historically significant site located off the coast of Chile, known for its association with European explorers and indigenous Mapuche culture. First documented by European explorer Juan Bautista Pastene in 1544, the island served as a crucial point of interest during the age of exploration, with notable visits from figures such as Francis Drake and Olivier van Noort. Archaeologically, the island provides insights into the Mapuche use of chilihueques as plough animals, as observed by Dutch captain Joris van Spilbergen in 1614. The island also holds historical significance due to the relocation of its Mapuche inhabitants in the late 17th century. Additionally, the discovery of Polynesian-featured skulls suggests broader cultural interactions. Mocha Island serves as a vibrant testament to the region's complex historical narrative and its role as a cultural crossroads.