Talca is not the administrative, cultural, or economic center of Chile, but it is perhaps the spiritual center. Talca is the cradle of Chilean nationalism, founded once in 1692 and refounded in 1742, and perhaps founded a third time in 1818 as Bernardo O'Higgins penned the official declaration of Chilean independence from Spain while safe in the Mediterranean bosom of the Chilean Central Valley.

The Talquino people have a saying: "Talca, Paris and London". They are proud of their past, but satisfied in their present and secure in their future too. The city is known for its wine and wheat, but the nascent manufacturing economy is growing at a rapid pace, and the city is certain to burst from its banks and enter the halls of greatness. In time, "Talca, Paris, and London" shall grow from an ironic in-joke to a sincere statement of pride. At least, that is what the most starry-eyed Talquinos say.