La Jalca (Peru) facts for kids
La Jalca was the very first town built by the Spanish in the northern part of Peru. It was founded in 1538 and served as the first main settlement for the area that is now the city of Chachapoyas. The town was given the name Saint John of the Border of the Chachapoyas, honoring its special patron saint. Around this time, a famous dish called juanes was also created. This traditional jungle food was made for celebrations, and back then, it was prepared with yucca, unlike the juanes iquiteños we know today.
The Founding of La Jalca
La Jalca holds a special place in the history of northern Peru. It was the very first town that Spanish explorers and settlers established in this region. This happened in the year 1538. Before the city of Chachapoyas became the main center, La Jalca was the most important Spanish settlement in the area.
Why the Name Saint John?
When the Spanish founded La Jalca, they named it Saint John of the Border of the Chachapoyas. This name was chosen to honor their patron saint, Saint John. It was a common practice for Spanish towns to be named after saints, showing their religious beliefs.
What are Juanes?
Juanes are a traditional and delicious dish from the jungle regions of Peru. They are especially popular during festivals and celebrations. The original juanes from La Jalca's early days were made using yucca, which is a starchy root vegetable.
Juanes Then and Now
Today, juanes are often made with rice, chicken, and other ingredients, like the juanes iquiteños. However, the first juanes created around the time La Jalca was founded were different. They used yucca as their main ingredient, showing how food traditions can change over time.
