Basilio Villarino facts for kids

Basilio Villarino (born 1741, died 1785) was a brave captain in the Spanish Royal Navy. He was famous for exploring the southern parts of South America. Many years after his death, in 1837, some of his travel journals were published. These journals described his journey from the Rio Negro to explore places like Bahia de Todos los Santos and the Colorado River.

Early Life of Basilio Villarino

Basilio Villarino was born in a town called Noia, in Spain, in the year 1741.

Exciting Voyages and Discoveries

In 1773, Villarino arrived in the Rio de la Plata region. He worked as an assistant pilot on a ship called the Perpetua.

From 1778, he began a detailed exploration of Patagonia. This is a large area in the southern part of South America. During his trips, he explored the coastlines and many important rivers. These rivers included the Negro, Colorado, Limay, and Deseado.

In 1779, he joined an expedition led by Francisco de Viedma. During this journey, they helped found the town of Carmen de Patagones.

A few years later, in 1782, Villarino navigated the Negro, Limay, and Collón Curá rivers. He used four small boats called chalupas. Their names were San Jose, San Juan, San Francisco de Asis, and Champagne. A local chieftain traveled with him on this adventure.

In 1783, he discovered the Choele Choel island. However, his exploration had to stop. This was because of frequent attacks from the native people in the area.

How Basilio Villarino Died

Sadly, Basilio Villarino was killed in January 1785. He was on an expedition to Sierra de la Ventana. This trip was led by Juan de la Piedra.

Basilio Villarino's Legacy

Basilio Villarino is remembered as an important explorer of Patagonia in Argentina. Many places have been named after him to honor his work.

These places include:

• A lake and a river in Neuquén.
• A part of Buenos Aires called Villarino Partido.
• Several schools.

An Argentine Navy ship from the 1880s was also named after him. This steamer, called ARA Villarino, was used for routes in Patagonia. In May 1880, this ship brought the remains of General José de San Martín back to Argentina from France.

See also

• ARA Villarino - An Argentine Navy transport ship from the 1880s.
• Villarino Lake - A lake in Neuquén, Argentina.

In Spanish: Basilio Villarino para niños