Palomo (horse) facts for kids
Palomo was the famous white horse of Simón Bolívar, a very important leader who helped many South American countries become free. Palomo was tall and had a long tail that almost touched the ground. This special horse went with Bolívar on most of his big journeys and battles to free nations. Palomo was a gift from an elderly peasant woman from Santa Rosa de Viterbo, in the Boyacá Department of Colombia. She gave him to Bolívar just before the important Battle of Boyacá in 1819.
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Palomo: Simón Bolívar's Loyal Horse
Palomo was more than just a horse; he was a symbol of loyalty and strength for Simón Bolívar. He was known for his striking white color and his impressive size. Palomo's story is a popular part of the history of South American independence.
A Special Gift for the Liberator
The story of how Bolívar received Palomo is quite interesting and is often told through local traditions.
The Dream and the Promise
In early 1814, Bolívar was traveling through Santa Rosa de Viterbo on his way to Tunja. His horse was very tired and couldn't go any further. He asked a local guide to help him get into town. As they walked, the guide told Bolívar about his wife, Casilda. Casilda had dreams, and in one dream, she saw herself giving a newborn colt (a baby horse) as a gift to a famous general. The guide didn't know he was talking to Bolívar! He was very surprised when he found out Bolívar's true identity. As Bolívar left town, he smiled and told the guide, "Tell Casilda to keep the colt for me."
Meeting Palomo at Last
Five years later, in 1819, Bolívar returned to New Granada (which is now Colombia). He was in the middle of the Battle of Vargas Swamp when he finally received the colt that Casilda had promised him. Bolívar named the horse Palomo, which means "cock pigeon," because of its beautiful gray-white color. Later, on his way back to Venezuela, Bolívar stopped in Santa Rosa. He visited Casilda in person to thank her for the wonderful horse.
Palomo's Final Ride
Palomo was a strong and loyal companion, but even the strongest horses can get tired. Bolívar once lent Palomo to one of his officers. The horse died from exhaustion after a very long and difficult march. This happened at a place called Hacienda Mulaló, which is in what we now call Yumbo, in the Valle del Cauca Department of Colombia.
Remembering Palomo Today
Palomo was buried next to the chapel at the hacienda, under a large, old ceiba tree. To this day, you can see Palomo's horseshoes and other items belonging to Bolívar on display. They are kept in the Museum of Mulaló, where people can visit and remember this incredible horse and his role in history.
See also
In Spanish: Palomo (caballo) para niños
- List of historical horses
- List of equestrian statues of Simón Bolívar
