Garcí Manuel de Carbajal facts for kids
Don Garcí Manuel de Carbajal was a Spanish soldier and leader. He is famous for founding the city of Arequipa in Peru. This happened on August 15, 1540. He named the new city "La Villa Hermosa de Arequipa," which means "The Beautiful Town of Arequipa." Carbajal was born in Plasencia, a place called Extremadura, Spain. He explored the area where Arequipa is now. He was sent there by the famous Spanish conqueror, Francisco Pizarro.
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Founding Arequipa: The Search for a New City
After the Spanish took over the Inca Empire, Francisco Pizarro wanted to build new cities. This would help Spain control the lands they had just won. So, Pizarro sent many groups of Spanish explorers across Peru. Carbajal led one of these groups. He followed Pizarro's advice and traveled to Southern Peru.
Finding a Healthy Location
Carbajal and his group first reached the coast near a place called Camaná. They stayed there for a short time. But many of them started to get sick with fevers and other illnesses. They soon realized they needed a healthier and more welcoming place to live.
Because of this, the Spanish explorers decided to move further inland. They eventually reached the spot where Arequipa's main square is today. As was the custom, they placed a cross in the empty land. This was a sign that a new church would be built there. Some local historians believe Carbajal chose this spot because it had a wonderful view of a large volcano in the background. Carbajal also began to plan the city's streets in a grid pattern, just as Pizarro had ordered.
Early Days of the City
Many of the first buildings and plans for Arequipa were made under Carbajal's guidance. He often talked with Pizarro and his other leaders about these plans. Some stories say that Pizarro himself was in Arequipa in 1539. He wanted to help start the city. But he had to leave quickly. He was called away to talk about peace with Manco Inca in Yucay. This place was about 30 kilometers from Machu Picchu. Not much is known about Arequipa's growth right after these early years.
Carbajal's Home: The Founder's Mansion
Meanwhile, Carbajal decided to build his own permanent home. It was later called "La Mansión del Fundador," which means "The Founder's Mansion." This house was built next to the Socabaya River. It was in a small countryside town called Huasacache. This town is about 10 kilometers from Arequipa's main square.
Over many centuries, the house became old and damaged. But it was fixed up again in the early 1980s. Today, many tourists visit it, even though it has had many different owners. Carbajal died in 1552. No one knows exactly where he was buried. However, local legends say his remains were placed in a secret underground path beneath Arequipa's main cathedral. This is similar to how Francisco Pizarro's body was buried in Lima.
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