Historically, Concepción was an important settlement. It was founded by the conqueror Pedro de Valdivia and lied just few kilometers north from La Frontera (The Fontrier) limit between Chilean-spanish countries and the Mapuche land. For that reason it was an important military settlement of the Viceroyalty of Peru and also suffered several destructions caused by Mapuche Armies during the early period of Spanish colony.
During the first times of Chilean Kingdom, Concepción was the home of the Real Audiencia, the most important goverment organism.
His importance continued during the colonial times, and when in Santiago, Chile ocurred the First National Goverment Board of September 18, 1810, Concepción did the same thing and later Concepcion politicians and militars became one important political force in the new country.
Also, Concepcion was used as entrance by the Spaniard Army in the attemp of the Viceroyalty of Peru to re-conquer Chile.
Today Concepción is the second largest city of the country and had many important industries. The University of Concepción is also on of the best reputed and in the neighbour harbour of Talcahuano is the biggest naval base.
This city is one the most active city in music rock activities. Most of the famous rock group in Chile had born in Concepción.