San Jerónimo de Millapoa facts for kids
San Jerónimo de Millapoa was an old fort built in 1585. It was located in what is now Chile, in the mountains near the Nahuelbuta Range. The fort helped control the small valleys on the eastern side of these mountains. It was about 25 kilometers (about 15 miles) south of the modern town of Santa Juana.
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What Was San Jerónimo de Millapoa Fort?
San Jerónimo de Millapoa was a military fort. It was built by a Spanish leader named Alonso de Sotomayor. The fort's main job was to protect the area around it. It sat high up, watching over the upper part of the Culenco River.
Why Was It Important?
The fort had a small group of soldiers, called a garrison. These soldiers were there to defend the region. They helped keep the peace and protect Spanish interests in the area. The fort was a key spot for controlling the land.
A Fort's History: Ups and Downs
San Jerónimo de Millapoa faced many challenges. In 1599, the Mapuche people, who lived in the area, started a big uprising. This forced the Spanish to leave the fort.
Rebuilding and Final Demolition
The fort was rebuilt in 1607. This happened under a new governor, Alonso Garcia Ramon. However, the Mapuche continued to bother the fort. They made it hard for the Spanish to stay there.
Finally, in May 1612, the Spanish decided to tear down the fort. This was part of a peace agreement with the Mapuche people from the Catirai region. This agreement was made at a meeting called the Parliament of Catirai. The fort was removed to help create peace.
Who Were the Mapuche?
The Mapuche are a group of native people from Chile and Argentina. They have a long history of defending their land and culture. They were often in conflict with the Spanish who came to colonize their territory.
