It was founded as a fortress on January 25, 1897, by Coronel Gregorio Urrutia under the name of Villa Portales, and later on Lonquimay. It is the beggining of the montanious region. The lyout of the Town Square, consisting of elliptical streets, give it a special and attractive appearance. It has a high population of Pehuenches. 

Lonquimay map