Catriel

Catriel is a city located in the province of Río Negro, Argentina. Situated in the Alto Valle of the Río Negro, it's primarily known as an important center for petroleum and natural gas extraction.

Historically, the area was inhabited by indigenous peoples, primarily the Mapuche. The modern city of Catriel was founded in 1959, its growth spurred by the discovery of oil in the surrounding region. The city's name honors the cacique Catriel, a prominent indigenous leader of the Pampa region during the 19th century.

Catriel's economy is heavily reliant on the oil and gas industry. This includes exploration, extraction, processing, and transportation activities. Agriculture, particularly fruit cultivation, also plays a role in the local economy, though less significantly than the energy sector.

The city is located approximately 170 kilometers from Neuquén City and experiences a semi-arid climate. Its geographic location places it within the Patagonia region.