September 16, 1615 Earthquake: Arica, Chile

Eleven years after the earthquake and tsunami of 1604, Arica was again destroyed by a strong earthquake on Sept 16, 1615 in the evening. The main church and the fort were among the buildings destroyed. Although there was no loss of life, damage was sustained over an area all the way to Tacna. A large number of aftershocks were reported. The tsunami which appeared in the same areas as the tsunami of 1604, did not cause serious damage. Two small negro children were almost drowned. (reference #415)

No deaths were reported, but "two Negro children were nearly drowned", a note which suggests a possible tsunami. The new fort and main church were destroyed and some adobe houses were damaged. Damage in Tacna. Many aftershocks. (reference #12425)