122 chapters
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122 chapters
INTRODUCTION.
INTRODUCTION.
T HE work of Pedro de Cieza de Leon is, in many respects, one of the most remarkable literary productions of the age of Spanish conquest in America. Written by a man who had passed his life in the camp from early boyhood, it is conceived on a plan which would have done credit to the most thoughtful scholar, and is executed with care, judgment, and fidelity. But before examining the work itself, I will give some account of its author—of whom, however, little is known, beyond what can be gathered
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PROLOGUE BY THE AUTHOR, IN WHICH HE ANNOUNCES THE INTENTION OF THE WORK, AND ITS DIVISIONS.
PROLOGUE BY THE AUTHOR, IN WHICH HE ANNOUNCES THE INTENTION OF THE WORK, AND ITS DIVISIONS.
I SET out from Spain, where I was born and bred, at such a tender age that I was scarcely thirteen complete years old when I sailed; and I spent more than seventeen years in the Indies, many of them in the discovery and conquest of new provinces, others in new settlements, and in travelling over different countries. As I noted the many great and strange things that are to be seen in this new world of the Indies, there came upon me a strong desire to write an account of some of them, as well thos
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CHAPTER I.
CHAPTER I.
Which treats of the discovery of the Indies, of some other things which were done when they were first discovered, and of the present state of affairs. F OURTEEN hundred and ninety-two years had passed away since the Princess of life, the glorious virgin Mary our Lady, begot the only-begotten Son of God, and the Catholic kings Don Fernando and Dona Isabel of glorious memory were reigning in Spain, when the illustrious Christoval Colon set forth with three caravels and ninety Spaniards, whom the
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CHAPTER II.
CHAPTER II.
Of the city of Panama, and of its founding, and why it is treated of first, before other matters. B EFORE I begin to treat of the affairs of the kingdom of Peru, I desire to give some account of what is known of the origin of these races of the Indies or New World, especially of the natives of Peru, according to what they say that they heard from their old men, although this is a secret which God alone can certainly know. But as my principal intention is, in this first part, to describe the land
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CHAPTER III.
CHAPTER III.
Of the ports between Panama and the land of Peru, of the distances between them, and of their latitudes. I T is known to all the world how the Spaniards, aided by God, have prosperously gained and made themselves masters of this new world, which is called the Indies. These Indies include so many and such great kingdoms and provinces, that it causes wonder even to think of them; and their discovery and conquest have been successful, as all who live in this age well know. I have sometimes thought
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CHAPTER IV.
CHAPTER IV.
Describes the navigation as far as the Callao of Lima, which is the port of the City of the Kings. I HAVE now described, though briefly, the way by which this South Sea is navigated as far as the Quiximies, which is in the land of Peru. It will now be well to continue the route until we arrive at the City of the Kings. Leaving then the cape of Passaos, the coast trends to the S. ¼ W. as far as Puerto Viejo, and before reaching it there is the bay of Caraquez, which vessels enter without any dang
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CHAPTER V.
CHAPTER V.
Of the ports and rivers on the coast, from the City of the Kings to the province of Chile, and of their latitudes, with other matters connected with the navigation of these seas. I HAVE myself been in most of the ports and rivers which I have now described, and I have taken much trouble to ascertain the correctness of what is here written, having communicated with the dexterous and expert pilots who know the navigation of these ports, and who took the altitudes in my presence. In this chapter I
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CHAPTER VI.
CHAPTER VI.
How the city of San Sebastian was founded in the bay of Uraba; [190] and of the native Indians in that neighbourhood. I N the year 1509, when Alonzo de Ojeda and Nicuesa were governors of Tierra Firme, a town was founded in the province of Darien, and was named Nuestra Señora del Antigua. Some of the Spaniards, who were among the early discoverers, declare that they found the flower of the chiefs of the Indians in these parts. At that time, although the province of Carthagena was discovered, it
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CHAPTER VII.
CHAPTER VII.
How the herb is made so poisonous, with which the Indians of Carthagena and Santa Martha have killed so many Spaniards. A S this poisonous juice of the Indians of Carthagena and Santa Martha is so famous, it seems well to give an account here of the way it is made, which is as follows. This juice is composed of many things. I investigated and became acquainted with the principal ingredients in the province of Carthagena, in a village called Bahayre, from a cacique or lord, whose name was Macavin
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CHAPTER VIII.
CHAPTER VIII.
In which other customs of the Indians subject to the city of Uraba are described. W ITH this evil juice the Indians anoint the points of their arrows, and they are so dexterous in the use of these arrows, and draw their bows with such force, that it has often happened that they have transfixed a horse, or the knight who is riding, the arrow entering on one side and coming out on the other. They wear cotton for defensive armour, the moisture of that country not being suitable for cuirasses. Howev
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CHAPTER IX.
CHAPTER IX.
Of the road between the city of San Sebastian and the city of Antioquia, and of the wild beasts, forests, rivers, and other things in the way; and how and in what season it can be passed. I found myself in this city of San Sebastian de Buena Vista in the year 1536, and in 1537 the licentiate Juan de Vadillo, Juez de Residencia, [199] and at that time governor of Carthagena, set out from it with one of the finest armies that had been seen in Tierra Firme. We were the first Spaniards who opened a
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CHAPTER X.
CHAPTER X.
Of the grandeur of the mountains of Abibe, and of the admirable and useful timber which grows there. H AVING crossed these low forest covered plains, the way leads up a broad chain of mountains called Abibe. [202] This mountain-chain extends to the west, over many provinces and uninhabited tracts. Its length is uncertain, but its breadth is in some places twenty leagues: in others much more, and in others a little less. The roads by which the Indians crossed this wild chain of mountains (for man
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CHAPTER XI.
CHAPTER XI.
Of the cacique Nutibara, and of his territory: and of other caciques subject to the city of Antioquia. W HEN we entered this valley with the Licentiate Juan de Vadillo, it was scattered over with very large houses of wood thatched with straw, and the fields were full of all kinds of food. In the hills several delightful rivers rise, whose banks were covered with many kinds of fruit trees, with very tall slender palm trees, thorny, with a bunch of fruit called Pixibaes growing at the top. They ma
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CHAPTER XII.
CHAPTER XII.
Of the customs of these Indians, of their arms, and of the ceremonies they perform; and who the founder of the city of Antioquia was. T HE inhabitants of these valleys are brave amongst themselves, and much feared by their neighbours. The men go naked and barefooted, and merely wear a narrow band fastened to a girdle round the waist. Their hair is worn very long. Their arms are darts, long lances of black palm, slings, and two-handed clubs, called Macanas . [205] The women wear a mantle from the
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CHAPTER XIII.
CHAPTER XIII.
Of the description of the province of Popayan, and the reason why the natives of it are so wild, and those of Peru so gentle. A S the captains from Peru discovered and settled in this province of Popayan, they speak of it as a part of, and one with, that land of Peru; but I cannot consider it in that light, because the people, the land, and all other things in it are different. This province was called Popayan from the city of Popayan, which is in it. It is 200 leagues long, little more or less,
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CHAPTER XIV.
CHAPTER XIV.
Containing an account of the road between the city of Antioquia and the town of Anzerma, and of the region which lies on either side of it. S TARTING from the city of Antioquia and travelling towards the town of Anzerma, one sees the rich and famous hill of Buritica, whence such a vast quantity of gold has been taken in times past. The distance from Antioquia to Anzerma is seventy leagues, and the road is very rough, with naked hills and few trees. The greater part is inhabited by Indians, but t
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CHAPTER XV.
CHAPTER XV.
Of the customs of the Indians of this land, and of the forests that must be traversed in order to reach the town of Anzerma. T HE people of this province are warlike, and their language is different from the others we had met with. The country is covered in all parts by dense forests, and a broad river flows through it, swelled by many streams and fountains where they make salt—a truly wonderful and prodigious fact: and of it, as well as of many other things in this province, I will speak presen
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CHAPTER XVI.
CHAPTER XVI.
Of the customs of the Caciques and Indians in the neighbourhood of the town of Anzerma, of the founding of that town, and who its founder was. T HE place on which the town of Anzerma is built is called by the natives Umbra, and when the Adelantado Sebastian de Belalcazar entered this province, as he had no interpreter, he could understand none of its secrets. He heard the Indians, when they saw salt, call it Anzer , and this is true, for among them it has no other name; and this is the reason th
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CHAPTER XVII.
CHAPTER XVII.
Concerning the provinces and towns between the city of Antiochia and the town of Arma; and of the customs of the natives. H ERE I will cease from following the road which I had commenced, and, returning to the city of Antiochia, I will give an account of the road which leads thence to the town of Arma, and even as far as the city of Cartago. After setting out from the city of Antiochia to go to the town of Arma, the great river of Santa Martha is reached, a journey of twelve leagues. [213] To cr
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CHAPTER XVIII.
CHAPTER XVIII.
Of the province of Arma, of the customs of the natives, and of other notable things. T HIS province of Arma, whence the town took its name, is very large and populous, and the richest in this part of the country; it contains twenty thousand Indians capable of bearing arms, not counting women and children, or did so when I wrote this, which was at the time when Christian Spaniards first entered the country. Their houses are large and round, made of long poles and beams, which curve upwards from t
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CHAPTER XIX.
CHAPTER XIX.
The sacrifices offered up by these Indians, and what great butchers they are in the matter of eating human flesh. T HE arms used by these Indians are darts, lances, slings, and blow-pipes. They are great lovers of noise, and when they go to war they take drums, flutes, and other instruments. They are deceitful and word breakers, nor will they keep the peace they have promised. Of the war they waged with the Spaniards I will treat in its proper place. Very great is the dominion that the devil, en
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CHAPTER XX.
CHAPTER XX.
Of the province of Paucura, and of the manners and customs of the natives. B EYOND the great province of Arma there is another, called Paucura, which contained five or six thousand Indians when we first entered it with the Captain Jorge Robledo. The language of the Indians in this province differs from that of Arma. The customs of the people are the same, except that these are a better disposed race, and that the women wear a small mantle to cover a certain part of their bodies, and the men do t
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CHAPTER XXI.
CHAPTER XXI.
Of the Indians of Pozo, and how valiant they are, and how dreaded by the neighbouring tribes. T HERE were three chiefs in this province when we entered it with the Captain Jorge Robledo. These, with their followers, were and are the most valiant and bold Indians in all these provinces. Their territory is bounded on one side by the great river, on another by the provinces of Carapa and Picara, concerning which I will speak presently, and on a third by Paucura, of which I have already treated. The
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CHAPTER XXII.
CHAPTER XXII.
Of the province of Picara, and of the chiefs of it. L EAVING Pozo, and travelling to the eastward, the great and very populous province of Picara is reached. The names of the principal chiefs of this province, when we discovered it, were Picara, Chusquruqua, Sanguitama, Chambiriqua, Ancora, Aupirimi, and others. Their language and customs resemble those of Paucura. This province extends to certain mountains which give rise to rivers of very limpid and sweet water. The rivers are said to be rich
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CHAPTER XXIII.
CHAPTER XXIII.
Of the province of Carrapa, and of what there is to be said concerning it. T HE province of Carrapa is twelve leagues from the city of Cartago, situated in a very rugged mountainous country, and the Cordillera of the Andes rises above it. The houses of the natives are small and very low, made of canes, and thatched with other small and delicate canes, of which there are many in these parts. Some of the houses of the chiefs are large, but others not. When the Christian Spaniards first entered the
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CHAPTER XXIV.
CHAPTER XXIV.
Of the province of Quinbaya, and of the customs of the chiefs. Also concerning the foundation of the city of Cartago, and who was its founder. T HE province of Quinbaya is fifteen leagues long by ten broad, from the Rio Grande to the snowy mountains of the Andes. It is populous throughout its whole extent, and the country is not so rugged as that through which we had passed. It contains extensive and dense cane brakes, which cannot be penetrated without great labour, and this province, with its
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CHAPTER XXV.
CHAPTER XXV.
In which the subject of the preceding chapter is continued; respecting what relates to the city of Cartago, and its foundation; and respecting the animal called chucha . T HESE cane brakes, of which I have already spoken, are so close and thick, that if a man is not well acquainted with the country, he would lose himself, and be unable to get out of them. Amongst the canes there are many tall ceybas , with many wide-spreading branches, and other trees of different sorts which, as I do not know t
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CHAPTER XXVI.
CHAPTER XXVI.
Which touches upon the provinces in this great and beautiful valley, up to the city of Cali. F ROM the city of Popayan this valley begins to spread out like a level plain between the chains of mountains, and is twelve leagues broad, more or less. In some parts it is narrower, and in others broader, and the river which flows through it becomes so narrow that neither boat, nor balsa , nor anything else can pass, by reason of the fury of the stream, and of the stones which come down in it. Boats ar
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CHAPTER XXVII.
CHAPTER XXVII.
Of the situation of the city of Cali, of the Indians in its vicinity, and concerning the founder. T O reach the city of Cali it is necessary to cross a small river called the Rio Frio, which is full of weeds and flags. This river is very cold, because it comes down from the mountains, and, flowing through a part of the valley, loses itself in the great river. Beyond this river the road leads over extensive plains, where there are many small and very fleet deer. The Spaniards have their grazing f
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CHAPTER XXVIII.
CHAPTER XXVIII.
Of the villages and chiefs of Indians who are within the jurisdiction of this city of Cali. O N the western side of this city, towards the mountains, there are many villages of Indians, who are very docile, a simple people void of malice. Amongst these villages there is a small valley closed in by mountains. The valley is level, and is always sown with maize and yucas, besides having plantations of fruit trees, and of the palms called pixinares . The houses in this valley are very large, round,
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CHAPTER XXIX.
CHAPTER XXIX.
In which the matter relating to the city of Cali is concluded; and concerning other Indians inhabiting the mountains near the port which they call Buenaventura. B ESIDES these provinces, there are many other Indian tribes under the jurisdiction of the city of Cali, who dwell in the most rugged and inaccessible mountains in the world. Amongst these wilds there are some valleys which are very fertile, and which yield all manner of fruit. There are also many wild animals, especially great tigers, w
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CHAPTER XXX.
CHAPTER XXX.
In which the road is described from the city of Cali to that of Popayan, and concerning the villages of Indians that lie between them. T HE distance from the city of Cali to the city of Popayan is twenty-two leagues, over a good level road without any forest, although there are some zigzag ascents, but they are not rugged nor difficult, like those we have left behind. Leaving, then, the city of Cali, the road passes through meadows and plains watered by rivers, until one is reached, which is not
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CHAPTER XXXI.
CHAPTER XXXI.
Concerning the river of Santa Martha, [253] and of the things which are met with on its banks. N OW that I have reached the city of Popayan, and described its site, neighbourhood, founding, and people, it seems well that I should give an account of the river which flows near it, and which is one of the two branches which form the great river of Santa Martha. Before treating of this river, however, I will relate what I find in the Scriptures concerning the four principal rivers mentioned there, w
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CHAPTER XXXII.
CHAPTER XXXII.
In which the account of the villages and chiefs subject to the city of Popayan is concluded; and what there is to be said until the boundary of Popayan is passed. T HIS city of Popayan has many large villages within the boundaries of its jurisdiction. Towards the east it has the populous province of Guambia, and others called Guanza, Maluasa, Polindara, Palace, Tembio, and Colaza, all thickly peopled. The Indians of these districts have much gold of seven quilates , more or less. They also have
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CHAPTER XXXIII.
CHAPTER XXXIII.
In which an account is given of what there is between Popayan and the city of Pasto; who was the founder of Pasto; and what there is to be said concerning the natives of the neighbouring districts. T HE city of Popayan is forty leagues from the town of Pasto, and the first village on the road was great and very populous in ancient times, as well as when the Spaniards discovered it, and even now it contains many Indians. The valley of Patia becomes very narrow at this village, and the Indians liv
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CHAPTER XXXIV.
CHAPTER XXXIV.
In which the account of what there is in this country is concluded, as far as the boundary of Pasto. T HERE is another rather large river in this country of the Pastos, called Ancasmayu, [257] which is the point to which the King Huayna Ccapac, son of the great captain Tupac Ynca Yupanqui, extended his conquests. Having passed the hot river, and the mountain beyond it, the road continues over some plains and hills, and crosses a small paramo , [258] where there was no little cold when I travelle
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CHAPTER XXXV.
CHAPTER XXXV.
Of the notable fountains and rivers in these provinces, and how they make salt of good quality by a very curious artifice. B EFORE I treat of the kingdom of Peru, or leave the government of Popayan, it seems to me well to give some account of the notable fountains there are in this land, and of the rivers of water from which they make salt, for thus the people are sustained, having no salt pits in these parts, and the sea being far distant. When the licentiate Juan de Vadillo set out from Cartha
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CHAPTER XXXVI.
CHAPTER XXXVI.
Which contains the description and appearance of the kingdom of Peru from the city of Quito to the town of La Plata, a distance of more than seven hundred leagues. N OW that I have finished what there is to be told respecting the province of Popayan, it appears to me that it is time to use my pen in giving an account of the notable things that are to be said of Peru, commencing from the city of Quito. But, before describing that city, it will be convenient to give a sketch of the whole country,
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CHAPTER XXXVII.
CHAPTER XXXVII.
Of the villages and provinces between the town of Pasto and the city of Quito. H AVING written what is notable concerning the pleasant town of Pasto, it will now be well to continue the journey, by relating what there is on the road to the city of Quito. I said that the town of Pasto was built in the valley of Atris, within the territory of the Quillacingas, a shameless people, and they and the Pastos are very dirty, and are held in little estimation by their neighbours. Leaving the town of Past
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CHAPTER XXXVIII.
CHAPTER XXXVIII.
In which it is stated who were the Kings Yncas, and how they ruled over Peru. A S I shall often have to treat of the Yncas, and give an account of many of their buildings, and of other notable things, it appears to me to be appropriate that I should say something concerning them in this place, that readers may know who these Yncas were, and not misunderstand their importance, or fall into mistakes about them. I, however, have written a special book upon them and their deeds, which is very copiou
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CHAPTER XXXIX.
CHAPTER XXXIX.
Of other villages and buildings between Carangue and the city of Quito: and of the robbery which the people of Otabalo are said to have committed on those of Carangue. I N the former chapter I spoke of the great power and dominion which the Yncas, Kings of Cuzco, held over all Peru, and it will now be well to proceed on our journey. From the royal station of Carangue the famous road of the Yncas leads to the station of Otabalo, which is not, and never has been, very rich or important, but on eac
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CHAPTER XL.
CHAPTER XL.
Of the situation of the city of San Francisco del Quito, of its foundation, and who it was who founded it. T HE city of San Francisco del Quito is in the northern province of the kingdom of Peru. This province is nearly sixty leagues long from east to west, and twenty-five or thirty broad. The city is built amongst ancient buildings, which the Yncas, in the days of their power, had ordered to be raised in these parts. They were the work of the illustrious and powerful Huayna Ccapac, and of the g
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CHAPTER XLI.
CHAPTER XLI.
Concerning the villages beyond Quito as far as the royal palaces of Tumebamba, and of some customs of the natives. T HE distance from the city of Quito to the palaces of Tumebamba is fifty-three leagues. Soon after leaving the city there is a village called Pansaleo, the natives of which differ in some things from their neighbours, especially in the fillets or bands round their heads; for by these bands the descent of the Indians is known, and the provinces of which they are natives. [273] These
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CHAPTER XLII.
CHAPTER XLII.
Of the other villages between Llacta-cunga and Riobamba; and of what passed between the Adelantado Don Pedro de Alvarado and the Marshal Don Diego de Almagro. A FTER travelling for some distance beyond Llacta-cunga, along the royal road which leads to the great city of Cuzco, the buildings of Muliambato are reached, concerning which I have nothing more to say than that they are inhabited by Indians of the same nation and customs as those of Llacta-cunga. There were ordinary buildings at this sta
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CHAPTER XLIII.
CHAPTER XLIII.
Which treats of what there is to be said concerning the other Indian villages as far as the buildings of Tumebamba. T HESE buildings of Riobamba, as I have already said, are in the province of the Puruaes, which is one of the best and most populous within the jurisdiction of the city of Quito. The men go dressed, as well as the women. They have the same customs as their neighbours, but are distinguished by the band round their heads. They all wear very long hair, and plait it in very small tails
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CHAPTER XLIV.
CHAPTER XLIV.
Concerning the grandeur of the rich palaces of Tumebamba, and of the province of the Cañaris. I N some parts of this book I have alluded to the great power of the Kings Yncas of Peru, and to their surpassing valour, and how, along a distance of more than one thousand two hundred leagues of coast which was under their rule, they appointed their delegates and governors, and formed many deposits full of all things necessary for their troops. In some of these depôts there were lances, in others dart
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CHAPTER XLV.
CHAPTER XLV.
Concerning the road which leads from the province of Quito to the coast of the South Sea, and the bounds of the city of Puerto Viejo. I have now brought my narrative as far as the buildings of Tumebamba, and it is necessary that I should describe the cities of Puerto Viejo and Guayaquil, although I would rather go on, both because I have not been much in the latter districts, and because the natives are deficient in intelligence, and it is difficult to get information from them. Also because it
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CHAPTER XLVI.
CHAPTER XLVI.
In which an account is given of certain things relating to the province of Puerto Viejo; and also concerning the equinoctial line. T HE first port in the land of Peru is that of Passaos, and from it and the river of Santiago the government of the Marquis Don Francisco Pizarro commenced, for to the northward the land falls within the limits of the province of San Juan, and thus it may be said that the land to the north is within the boundaries of the city of Santiago de Puerto Viejo, where, being
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CHAPTER XLVII.
CHAPTER XLVII.
Treating of the question whether the Indians of this province were conquered by the Yncas or not; and concerning the death which they inflicted on certain captains of Tupac Ynca Yupanqui. M ANY Indians say that the Lords Yncas never conquered, nor were able to bring under their yoke, these natives of Puerto Viejo, of whom I am now treating, though others affirm the contrary, saying that the Yncas subjugated them, and had them under their orders. The latter say that Huayna Ccapac came in person t
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CHAPTER XLVIII.
CHAPTER XLVIII.
How these Indians were conquered by Huayna Ccapac, and how they conversed with the devil, sacrificed to him, and buried women alive with the bodies of their chiefs. A FTER the events which I have just alluded to as having occurred in the provinces near the city of Puerto Viejo, many of the natives relate that, in process of time, when the King named Huayna Ccapac was reigning in Cuzco, he visited the provinces of Quito in person, and entirely subjugated all these Indians. It must be understood t
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CHAPTER XLIX.
CHAPTER XLIX.
(The heading of this chapter is unfit for translation.) I N many parts of these Indies the people worshipped the sun, although they also believed in a Creator whose seat was in heaven. The worship of the sun was either received from the Yncas, or, as in the province of Guancavilcas, established from ancient times. The people of Guancavilcas (so they say) used to pull out three teeth in each jaw, the fathers doing it to their children when of very tender age, which they thought was no evil, but r
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CHAPTER L.
CHAPTER L.
How in ancient times the Indians of Manta worshipped an emerald as their god; and of other things concerning these Indians. I N many histories which I have seen, I have read, if I am not mistaken, that in some countries they worshipped God in the form of a bull, in others of a cock, in others of a lion, and that there have been a thousand superstitions of this kind, which seem to afford matter for laughter more than anything else. I will only remark, therefore, that the Greeks, among whom there
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CHAPTER LI.
CHAPTER LI.
In which the account of the Indians of Puerto Viejo is finished; and concerning the founding of that city, and who was its founder. I SHALL be brief in describing what more there is concerning these provinces of Puerto Viejo, because the substance of my account of them has already been written in the preceding chapter; and I shall then return to the palaces of Tumebamba, where I left the main thread of my history. I may here observe that, as soon as the Adelantado Don Pedro de Alvarado and the m
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CHAPTER LII.
CHAPTER LII.
Of the wells which there are at the point of Santa Elena; of the story they tell respecting the arrival of giants in those parts; and of the tar which is found there. A S , at the beginning of this work, I gave a detailed account of all the ports on the coast of Peru, from Panama to the confines of Chile, which is a great length of coast, it does not appear necessary to repeat them here, and for this reason I shall not treat of them. I have also described the principal places in this province. T
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CHAPTER LIV.[306]
CHAPTER LIV.[306]
Concerning the foundation of the city of Guayaquil; and how certain of the natives put the captains of Huayna Ccapac to death. F URTHER on, towards the west, is the city of Guayaquil; and, as soon as the boundary of its jurisdiction is crossed, the Indians are Guancavilcas—those toothless ones who, from custom, or to honour their accursed gods, pulled out their teeth, as I have before said. As I have already given an account of their dress and customs, I have no wish to repeat it in this chapter
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CHAPTER LV.
CHAPTER LV.
Of the island of Puna, and of that of La Plata: and concerning the admirable root called sarsaparilla, which is so useful for all diseases. T HE island of Puna, which is near the port of Tumbez, is little more than ten leagues round, yet in former times it was considered an important place; for, besides that the inhabitants are great traders, and possess in their islands all things needful to sustain human life, which are sufficient causes for their wealth, they are held to be valiant by their n
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CHAPTER LVI.
CHAPTER LVI.
How the city of Santiago de Guayaquil was founded and settled, of some Indian villages which are subject to it, and concerning other things until its boundary is passed. T HAT it may be known how the city of Santiago de Guayaquil was founded, it will be necessary to say something concerning it, although, in the third part of my work, I shall treat more fully on the subject, in the place where the discovery of Quito and conquest of these provinces by the captain Don Sebastian Belalcazar is narrat
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CHAPTER LVII.
CHAPTER LVII.
Of the Indian villages between the buildings of Tumebamba and the city of Loxa, and concerning the founding of that city. S ETTING out from Tumebamba, in the direction of Cuzco, the great road passes through the province of the Cañaris, until it reaches Cañaribamba and the buildings a little further on. Villages belonging to the same province are seen on either hand, and to the eastward there are mountains, on the other side of which the country, which is inhabited, slopes down towards the river
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CHAPTER LVIII.
CHAPTER LVIII.
Concerning the provinces between Tamboblanco and the city of San Miguel, the first city founded by the Christian Spaniards in Peru; and what there is to be said of the natives. A S I have undertaken in this work to satisfy the reader on all points worthy of note concerning the kingdom of Peru, although it will be great trouble to me to stop at one place and return to another, still I shall not fail to do so when it is necessary. In this place I shall treat of the foundation of San Miguel, [320]
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CHAPTER LIX.
CHAPTER LIX.
In which the narrative is continued down to the foundation of the city of San Miguel, and who was the founder. Also of the difference of the seasons in this kingdom of Peru, which is a notable thing; and how it does not rain along the whole length of these plains, which are on the coast of the South Sea. T HE city of San Miguel is the first that was founded in this kingdom, by the marquis Don Francisco Pizarro; and here the first temple was raised in honour of God our Lord. To describe the coast
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CHAPTER LX.
CHAPTER LX.
Concerning the road which the Yncas ordered to be made along these coast valleys, with buildings and depôts like those in the mountains; and why these Indians are called Yuncas. T HAT my writings may be conducted with all possible regularity, I wish, before returning, to conclude what there is to be said about the provinces in the mountains, and to relate what is worthy of remark on the coast, which, as I have said in other parts, is important. In this place I will give an account of the grand r
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CHAPTER LXI.
CHAPTER LXI.
How these Yuncas were very superstitious, and how they were divided into nations and lineages. B EFORE I proceed to describe the valleys of the coast, and the founding of the three cities, of the Kings, of Truxillo, and of Arequipa, I will here recount a few things, that I may not have to repeat them over again, both those I saw myself, and those which I learned from Fray Domingo de Santo Tomas. This friar is one of those who understand the language well, and he has been a long time among the In
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CHAPTER LXII.
CHAPTER LXII.
How the Indians of these valleys and of other parts of the country believe that souls leave the bodies, and do not die: and why they desired their wives to be buried with them. M ANY times in this history I have said that, in the greater part of the kingdom of Peru, it is a custom much used and observed by all the Indians to inter, with their dead, all their precious things, and some of the most beautiful and best-beloved of their wives. It appears that this custom was observed in other parts of
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CHAPTER LXIII.
CHAPTER LXIII.
How they buried their dead, and how they mourned for them, at the performance of their obsequies. I N the previous chapter I recounted all there is to be said concerning the belief of these Indians in the immortality of the soul, and what the enemy of the human race makes them think concerning it. It now seems good to me that in this place I should give some account of their mode of burying their dead. In this there are great differences, for in some parts they make holes, in others they place t
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CHAPTER LXV.
CHAPTER LXV.
How they have a custom of naming children, in most of these provinces, and how they sought after sorceries and charms. O NE thing that I observed during the time that I was in these kingdoms of Peru was, that they are accustomed to name their children, in most of the provinces, when they are fifteen or twenty days old. This name is retained until they are ten or twelve years old, when they receive another, the relations and friends of the father having previously been assembled on a certain day
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CHAPTER LXVI.
CHAPTER LXVI.
Of the fertility of the land in these coast valleys, and of the many fruits and roots they contain. Also concerning their excellent system of irrigating the fields. N OW that I have given as brief an account as possible of several things connected with our subject, it will be well to return to the valleys, treating of each one separately, as I have already done of the provinces and villages of the Sierra . [342] But first I will say somewhat concerning the fruits, other food, and works of irriga
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CHAPTER LXVII.
CHAPTER LXVII.
Of the road from San Miguel to Truxillo, and of the valleys between those cities. I N a former chapter I described the foundation of the city of San Miguel, the first settlement made by the Spaniards in Peru. I will now treat of what there is between this city and Truxillo, the distance between the two cities being seventy leagues, a little more or less. On setting out from San Miguel there is a distance of twenty-two leagues over a sandy waste before reaching the valley of Motupe. The road is v
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CHAPTER LXVIII.
CHAPTER LXVIII.
In which the same road is followed as has been treated of in the former chapter, until the city of Truxillo is reached. B EYOND the valley of Collique there is another valley called Sana, which resembles the others. Further on is the valley of Pacasmayu, which is the most fertile and populous of any that I have yet mentioned. The natives of this valley, before they were conquered by the Yncas, were powerful, and respected by their neighbours, and they had great temples where they offered sacrifi
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CHAPTER LXIX.
CHAPTER LXIX.
Of the founding of the city of Truxillo, and who was the founder. T HE city of Truxillo is founded in the valley of Chimu, near a large and beautiful river, whence they draw channels by which the Spaniards irrigate their orchards and flower gardens. This city of Truxillo is situated in a region which is considered healthy, and on all sides it is surrounded by estates which the Spaniards call granges and farms, where the citizens have their flocks and crops. All the land is irrigated, and in all
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CHAPTER LXX.
CHAPTER LXX.
Of the other valleys and villages along the coast road, as far as the City of the Kings. I N the mountains, before reaching the City of the Kings, are the cities of the frontier of Chachapoyas, and that of Leon de Huanuco. I have determined that I will say nothing of these until I begin to give an account of the villages and provinces in the mountains, which still await my notice. I will then write conceiving their foundation, with as much brevity as I can, but at present we must pass forward on
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CHAPTER LXXI.
CHAPTER LXXI.
Of the situation of the City of Kings, of its founding, and who was the founder. T HE valley of Lima is the largest and broadest of all those of which I have written between it and Tumbez; and, as it was large, so it was very populous. But now there are few native Indians, for, as the city was built on their land, and as their fields and water-courses were taken from them, some have now gone to one valley and some to another. If by chance some have remained, they continue to irrigate their field
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CHAPTER LXXII.
CHAPTER LXXII.
Of the valley of Pachacamac, and of the very ancient temple in it, and how it was reverenced by the Yncas. F OUR leagues from the City of the Kings, travelling down the coast, is the valley of Pachacamac, which is very famous among these Indians. This valley is fruitful and pleasant, and in it there was one of the grandest temples that is to be seen in these parts. They say of it that, although the Kings Yncas built many temples besides the temple of Cuzco, and enriched them greatly, yet none we
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CHAPTER LXXIII.
CHAPTER LXXIII.
Of the valleys between Pachacamac and the fortress of Huarco, and of a notable thing which is done in the valley of Huarco. F ROM this temple of Pachacamac, where the temple is, the road leads to Chilca, and at that place there is a thing well worthy of note, for it is very strange. It is this,—that neither rain falls from heaven, nor does any river or spring flow through the land, and yet the greater part of the valley is full of crops of Indian corn, of roots, and of fruit trees. It is a marve
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CHAPTER LXXIV.
CHAPTER LXXIV.
Of the great province of Chincha, and how much it was valued in ancient times. A BOUT two leagues beyond the fortress of Guarco is a rather large river called Lunahuana, and the valley which it forms is like all the rest. Six miles further on is the large and beautiful valley of Chincha, so far famed throughout Peru, as well as feared in former days by the other natives. When the Marquis Don Francisco Pizarro, with his thirteen companions, discovered the coast of this kingdom, it was said on all
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CHAPTER LXXV.
CHAPTER LXXV.
Of the other valley, as far as the province of Tarapaca. A FTER leaving the beautiful province of Chincha, and travelling over sandy wastes, the traveller reaches the refreshing valley of Yca, which was not less rich and populous than the others. A river flows through it, which, during some months in the year when the season is summer in the Sierra , has so little water that the inhabitants of the valley feel the want of it. In the days of their prosperity, before they were subdued by the Spania
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CHAPTER LXXVI.
CHAPTER LXXVI.
Of the founding of the city of Arequipa, how it was founded, and who was its founder. T HE distance from the City of the Kings to that of Arequipa is one hundred and twenty leagues. The city of Arequipa is built in the valley of Quilca, fourteen leagues from the sea, in the most healthy and best part for building. The situation and climate of this city is so good that it is praised as the most healthy in all Peru, and the most pleasant. The country yields very good wheat, of which they make exce
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CHAPTER LXXVII.
CHAPTER LXXVII.
In which it is declared how that, beyond the province of Huancabamba, there is that of Caxamarca, and other large and very populous provinces. I N most of the provinces of this great kingdom the natives imitate each other so closely that, in many things, one may say that they all seem to be one people; and for this reason I touch briefly upon such matters in some parts of my work, because I have treated more fully of them in others. Now that I have finished all I have to say concerning the coast
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CHAPTER LXXVIII.
CHAPTER LXXVIII.
Of the foundation of the city of the frontier, who was its founder, and of some customs of the Indians in the province. B EFORE reaching this province of Caxamarca, a road branches off, which was also made by order of the Kings Yncas. It leads to the country of the Chachapoyas, where the city of the frontier is built. It will be necessary to relate how it was founded, and I shall then pass on to treat of Huanuco. I hold it to be quite certain that, before the Spaniards conquered this country of
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CHAPTER LXXIX.
CHAPTER LXXIX.
Which treats of the foundation of the city of Leon de Huanuco, and who was its founder. T O describe the founding of the city of Leon de Huanuco, it must be understood, first, that when the Marquis Don Francisco Pizarro founded the rich City of the Kings in the valleys and deserts of the coasts, all the provinces which were then within the jurisdiction of that city had to do service, and the citizens held encomiendas over the chiefs. And the tyrant Yllatopa, with other Indians of his tribe, wage
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CHAPTER LXXX.
CHAPTER LXXX.
Of the situation of this city, of the fertility of its fields, and of the customs of its inhabitants: also concerning a beautiful edifice or palace of the Yncas at Huanuco. T HE situation of this city of Leon de Huanuco is good, and is considered very healthy. It is praised as a place where the nights and mornings are cool, and where men are healthy, owing to a good climate. They reap wheat and maize in great abundance, and they also have grapes, figs, oranges, lemons, limes, and other fruits of
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CHAPTER LXXXI.
CHAPTER LXXXI.
Of what there is to be said concerning the country from Caxamarca to the valley of Xauxa; and of the district of Guamachuco, which borders on Caxamarca. H AVING told all that I was able to gather touching the foundation of the cities of the frontier of Chachapoyas and of Leon de Huanuco, I shall now return to the royal road, and describe the provinces between Caxamarca and the beautiful valley of Xauxa, a distance of eighty leagues, a little more or less, all traversed by the royal road of the Y
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CHAPTER LXXXII.
CHAPTER LXXXII.
In which it is told how the Yncas ordered that the storehouses should be well provided, and how these were kept in readiness for the troops. T HE royal road of the Yncas goes from this province of Huamachuco to the province of the Conchucos, a distance of two short days’ journey, and half-way there were buildings and store-houses prepared for the reception of the Kings when they travelled this way; for it was their custom, when they visited any part of this kingdom, to travel in great state, and
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CHAPTER LXXXIII.
CHAPTER LXXXIII.
Of the lake of Bombon, and how it is supposed to be the source of the great river of La Plata. T HIS province is strong from its position, and because the natives were very warlike. Before the Yncas could conquer them they fought great battles with them, until (according to what many of the oldest Indians declare) they at length induced them to submit by the use of intrigues and presents. There is a lake in the country of these Indians which is more than ten leagues round. This land of Bombon is
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CHAPTER LXXXIV.
CHAPTER LXXXIV.
Which treats of the valley of Xauxa, and of its inhabitants, and relates how great a place it was in times past. A RIVER flows through this valley of Xauxa, which is that which I said, in the chapter on Bombon, was the source of the river of La Plata. The valley is fourteen leagues long, and four to five broad, in some places more, in others less. [415] It was so populous throughout, that, at the time the Spaniards first entered it, they say for certain that it contained more than thirty thousan
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CHAPTER LXXXV.
CHAPTER LXXXV.
In which the road is described from Xauxa to the city of Guamanga, and what there is worthy of note on this road. I FIND that the distance from this valley of Xauxa to the city of the victory of Guamanga is thirty leagues. Going by the royal road, the traveller journeys on until certain very ancient edifices, now in ruins, are reached, which are on the summit of the heights above the valley. Further on is the village of Acos, near a morass full of great rushes. Here, also, there were edifices an
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CHAPTER LXXXVI.
CHAPTER LXXXVI.
Which treats of the reason why the city of Guamanga was founded, its provinces having been at first partly under the jurisdiction of Cuzco, and partly under that of the City of the Kings. A FTER the war at Cuzco between the Indians and the Spaniards, the King Manco Ynca, seeing that he could not recover the city of Cuzco, determined to retire into the provinces of Viticos, which are in the most retired part of these regions, beyond the great Cordillera of the Andes; after having first led the ca
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CHAPTER LXXXVII.
CHAPTER LXXXVII.
Of the founding of the city of Guamanga, and who was its founder. W HEN the marquis Don Francisco Pizarro determined to found a city in this province, he did not select the site where it now stands, but chose an Indian village called Guamanga, which is the reason why the city received the same name. [427] The village was near the great Cordillera of the Andes. The marquis left the captain Francisco de Cardenas as his lieutenant here. After some time, and from various causes, the city was removed
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CHAPTER LXXXVIII.
CHAPTER LXXXVIII.
In which some things are related concerning the natives of the districts near this city. M ANY Indians have been given in encomienda to the citizens of Guamanga, and notwithstanding that they are numerous, yet the wars have caused the destruction of great numbers. Most of them were Mitimaes , who, as I have already said, were Indians transported from one province to another, the work of the Kings Yncas. Some of these were Orejones , although not of the principal families of Cuzco. To the eastwar
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CHAPTER LXXXIX.
CHAPTER LXXXIX.
Of the great buildings in the province of Vilcas, which are beyond the city of Guamanga. T HE distance from the city of Guamanga to that of Cuzco is sixty leagues, a little more or less. On this road is the plain of Chupas, where the cruel battle was fought between the governor Vaca de Castro and Don Diego de Almagro the Younger. Further on, still following the royal road, are the edifices of Vilcas, eleven leagues from Guamanga, which, say the natives, was the centre of the dominions of the Ync
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CHAPTER XC.
CHAPTER XC.
Of the province of Andahuaylas, and of what is to be seen as far as the valley of Xaquixaguana. W HEN I entered this province of Andahuaylas, [434] the chief of it was an Indian named Guasco, and the natives were called Chancas . They go about dressed in woollen shirts and mantles. In former times they were so valiant, that they not only conquered other lands and lordships, but extended their dominions so widely that they came near to the city of Cuzco. There were fierce encounters between those
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CHAPTER XCI.
CHAPTER XCI.
Of the river of Apurimac, of the valley of Xaquixaguana, of the causeway which passes over it, and of what else there is to relate until the city of Cuzco is reached. F URTHER on is the river of Apurimac, which is the largest of those which are crossed between this place and Caxamarca. It is eight leagues from that of Abancay, and the road is much broken up by mountains and declivities, so that those who made it must have had much labour in breaking up the rocks, and levelling the ground, especi
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CHAPTER XCII.
CHAPTER XCII.
Of the manner in which the city of Cuzco is built, of the four royal roads which lead from it, of the grand edifices it contained, and who was its founder. T HE city of Cuzco is built in a very rugged situation, and is surrounded by mountains on all sides. It stands on the banks of two streams, one of which flows through it, and there are buildings on both sides. To the eastward there is a valley, which commences at the city itself, so that the waters of the streams which pass by the city flow t
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CHAPTER XCIII.
CHAPTER XCIII.
In which the things of this city of Cuzco are described more in detail. A S this city was the most important and principal place in the kingdom, the Indians of the neighbourhood were assembled at certain seasons of the year to clean the streets, and perform other duties. Near the city, on one side and the other, there were the same storehouses as are to be found in all parts of the kingdom, some larger, and some stronger than others. As these Yncas were so rich and powerful, some of their edific
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CHAPTER XCIV.
CHAPTER XCIV.
Which treats of the valley of Yucay and of the strong fortress at Tambo, and of part of the province of Cunti-suyu. A BOUT four leagues from this city of Cuzco, a little more or less, there is a valley called Yucay, which is very beautiful, confined between ranges of mountains in such sort that the shelter thus afforded makes the climate very pleasant and healthy. [459] It is neither too hot nor too cold, and is considered so excellent that the citizens of Cuzco have several times proposed to re
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CHAPTER XCV.
CHAPTER XCV.
Of the forest of the Andes, of their great thickness, of the huge snakes which are bred in them, and of the evil customs of the Indians who live in the interior of these forests. T HIS cordillera of the Andes must be one of the grandest in the world, for it commences at the straits of Magallanes, extends along the whole extent of this kingdom of Peru, and traverses so many provinces that they cannot be enumerated. It is covered with high peaks, some of them well covered with snow, and others wit
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CHAPTER XCVI.
CHAPTER XCVI.
How the Indians carry herbs or roots in their mouths, and concerning the herb called coca, which they raise in many parts of this kingdom. I N all parts of the Indies through which I have travelled I have observed that the natives take great delight in having herbs or roots in their mouths. Thus, in the district of the city of Antioquia, some of the people go about with a small leaf in their mouths, and in the province of Arma they chew another leaf. In the districts of Quinbaya and Anzerma they
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CHAPTER XCVII.
CHAPTER XCVII.
Of the road from Cuzco to the city of La Paz; and of the villages, until the Indians called Canches are passed. T HE distance from the city of Cuzco to the city of La Paz is eighty leagues, a little more or less. It must be known that, before La Paz was founded, all the towns and villages now subject to that city were within the limits of the city of Cuzco. Setting out from Cuzco by the royal road of Colla-suyu, it leads to the narrow pass of Mohina, leaving the buildings of Quispicanchi on the
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CHAPTER XCVIII.
CHAPTER XCVIII.
Of the provinces of Canas, and of Ayavire. A FTER leaving the province of Canches, that of Canas [481] is entered, which is the name of another tribe, and the names of the villages are Hatuncana, Chiquana, Horuro, Cacha, and others which I shall not enumerate. [482] These Indians all wear clothes, both men and women, and they have large, round, high woollen caps on their heads. Before they were subjugated by the Yncas, they had their villages in the mountain fastnesses, whence they came forth to
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CHAPTER XCIX.
CHAPTER XCIX.
Of the great district which is inhabited by the Collas , of the appearance of the land where their villages are built, and how Mitimaes were stationed to supply them with provisions. T HE region which they call Collao appears to me to be the largest province in all Peru, and the most populous. The Collas are first met with at Ayavire, and they extend as far as Caracoto. To the east of their province are the forests of the Andes, to the west are the peaks of the snowy mountains, which descend on
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CHAPTER C.
CHAPTER C.
Of what is said concerning the origin of these Collas, of their appearance, and how they buried their dead. M ANY of these Indians say that they have heard from their fathers that, in times past, there was a great deluge, in the manner described by me in the third chapter of the second part. They also declare that the origin of their ancestors was very ancient, and they relate so many sayings and fictions that I shall not stop to write them down, for some say that their ancestors came out of a f
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CHAPTER CI.
CHAPTER CI.
How these Indians perform their annual ceremonies, and of the temples they had in ancient times. I N the last chapter I have declared how these people made great ado when they put their dead into the tombs. After the interment the women and servants shaved their heads, put on their commonest clothing, and took no care of their persons. Besides this, in order to show their grief, they twisted ropes of sedge round their heads, and uttered continual lamentations during a whole year if the deceased
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CHAPTER CII.
CHAPTER CII.
Of the ancient ruins at Pucara, of the former greatness of Hatun-colla, of the village called Azangaro, and of other things which are here related. N OW that I have related certain things that I was able to collect respecting the Collao as briefly as possible, I propose to continue my writing by giving an account of the villages along the royal road, as far as the city of La Paz, which is built in the valley of Chuquiapu, on the confines of the great province of the Collao. Coming from Ayavire a
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CHAPTER CIII.
CHAPTER CIII.
Of the great lake which is within the province of the Collao, of its depth, and of the temple of Titicaca. T HIS land of the Collao is very extensive (as I have said in former chapters), and, besides the inhabited parts, there are many deserts, snowy mountains, and grassy plains which yield sustenance to the wild flocks which wander in all directions. In the centre of the province there is the largest and broadest lake that has been found in the Indies, near which are most of the villages of the
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CHAPTER CIV.
CHAPTER CIV.
In which the narrative continues, and the villages are described as far as Tiahuanaco. R ETURNING to the road where I left it, which was at Hatuncolla, I have to say that it passes thence by Paucar-colla, and other villages of this nation of the Collas, to Chucuito, which is one of the principal and most complete towns in any part of this great kingdom, and is the chief place of the Indians owned by his Majesty in this province. It is certain, too, that the Yncas in former times held Chucuito to
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CHAPTER CV.
CHAPTER CV.
Of the village of Tiahuanaco, and of the great and ancient edifices which are to be seen there. T IAHUANACO is not a very large village, but it is celebrated for the great edifices near it, which are certainly things worth seeing. [498] Near the buildings there is a hill made by the hands of men, on great foundations of stone. [499] Beyond this hill there are two stone idols, of the human shape and figure, the features very skilfully carved, so that they appear to have been done by the hand of s
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CHAPTER CVI.
CHAPTER CVI.
Of the founding of the city called of Our Lady of Peace, who was its founder, and of the road thence to the town of Plata. F ROM the village of Tiahuanaco the road leads to Viacha, a distance of seven leagues, leaving the villages called Cacayavire, Caquinhora, Mallama, and others on the left hand; but it seems to me of little use to name them all. In the midst of them is the plain near another village called Huarina; the place where, in the days that are passed, there was a battle between Diego
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CHAPTER CVII.
CHAPTER CVII.
Of the founding of the town of Plata, which is situated in the province of Charcas. T HE noble and loyal town of Plata, a settlement of Spaniards in Chuquisaca (in the province of Charcas), is very famous throughout the kingdoms of Peru, and in other parts of the world, for the great treasure which, in these latter years, has been brought thence to Spain. This town is built in the best situation that could be found, in a place, as I have already said, which is called Chuquisaca. [506] The climat
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CHAPTER CVIII.
CHAPTER CVIII.
Of the riches in Porco, and how there are large veins of silver near that town. I T appears from what the Indians now say that, in the times when the Kings Yncas governed this kingdom of Peru, they obtained a great quantity of silver from some parts of this province of Charcas, and Indians were stationed there, who gave the metal to the overseers or their deputies. [509] In the hill of Porco, which is near the town of Plata, there were mines out of which the Indians got silver for their lords. M
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CHAPTER CIX.
CHAPTER CIX.
How they discovered the mines of Potosi, whence they have taken riches such as have never been seen or heard of in other times; and how, as the metal does not run, the Indians get it by the invention of the huayras . T HE mines of Porco, and others in this kingdom, have been open since the time of the Yncas, when the veins whence they extract the metal were discovered; but those which they have found in the hill of Potosi (concerning which I now desire to write) were never worked until the year
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CHAPTER CX.
CHAPTER CX.
There was the richest market in the world at this hill of Potosi, at the time when these mines were prosperous. I N all parts of this kingdom of Peru we who have travelled over it know that there are great fairs or markets, where the natives make their bargains. Among these the greatest and richest was formerly in the city of Cuzco, for even in the time of the Spaniards its greatness was caused by the gold which was bought and sold there, and by the other things of all kinds that were sent into
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CHAPTER CXI.
CHAPTER CXI.
Of the sheep, huanacus , and vicuñas , which they have in most parts of the mountains of Peru. I T appears to me that in no part of the world have sheep like those of the Indies been found or heard of. They are especially met with in this kingdom and in the government of Chile, as well as in some parts of the province of the Rio de la Plata. It may be that they will also be found in parts that are still unknown. These sheep are among the most excellent creatures that God has created, and the mos
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CHAPTER CXII.
CHAPTER CXII.
Of a tree called molle , and of other herbs and roots in this kingdom of Peru. W HEN I wrote concerning the city of Guayaquil I treated of the sarsaparilla, an herb the value of which is well known to all who have visited those parts. In this place I propose to treat of the trees called molles , and of their uses. In the valleys and great forests of Peru there are many trees of different kinds, and with different uses, very few of which are like those of Spain. Some of them, such as the aguacate
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CHAPTER CXIII.
CHAPTER CXIII.
How there are large salt lakes and baths in this kingdom; and how the land is suited for the growth of olives and other fruits of Spain, and for some animals and birds of that country. H AVING concluded what I have to say concerning the founding of the new cities in Peru, it will be well to give an account of some of the most noteworthy things in the country, before I bring this first part of my work to a conclusion. I will now make mention of the great salt lakes in this country, a thing very i
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CHAPTER CXIV.
CHAPTER CXIV.
How the native Indians of this kingdom were great masters of the arts of working in silver, and of building; and how they had excellent dyes for their fine cloths. F ROM the accounts given to us by the Indians, it appears that, in ancient times, they had not the same order in their affairs as they established after they were subdued by the Yncas. For verily things may be seen made by their hands with such skill, that they cause admiration to all who have any knowledge of them. And what is more c
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CHAPTER CXV.
CHAPTER CXV.
How there are great mines in most parts of this kingdom. T HE long chain of mountains, which we call Andes, commences at the strait of Magallanes, and traverses many regions and great provinces, and we know that on the side towards the South Sea (which is the west) great riches are found in the hills and rivers, while the provinces to the eastward are considered to be poor in metals, according to the account of those who extended their conquests to the river of La Plata, and came thence to Peru
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CHAPTER CXVI.
CHAPTER CXVI.
How many nations of these Indians make war one upon the other, and how the lords and chiefs oppress the poorer people. I VERILY believe that the people in these Indies have been there for many ages, as is shown by the ancient buildings and the extensive regions they have peopled; and, although they are all brown and beardless, and are so much alike, they have such a multitude of languages that there is almost a new language at every league in all parts of the country. [535] As so many ages have
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CHAPTER CXVII.
CHAPTER CXVII.
In which certain things are declared concerning the Indians; and what fell out between a clergyman and one of them, in a village of this kingdom. A S some people say evil things of these Indians, comparing them with beasts, saying that in their customs and ways of living they are more like beasts than men, and that they not only eat each other, but commit other great crimes; and as I have written of these and other abuses of which they are guilty in this history, I wish it to be known that all t
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CHAPTER CXVIII.
CHAPTER CXVIII.
How, when a chief near the town of Anzerma wished to become a Christian, he saw the devils visibly, who wished to deter him from his good intention by their terrors. I N the last chapter I related how an Indian of the village of Lampa was converted to Christianity. I will here tell another strange story, that the faithful may glorify the name of God who is so merciful to us, and that the wicked and incredulous may acknowledge the works of the Lord. When the Adelantado Belalcazar was governor of
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CHAPTER CXIX.
CHAPTER CXIX.
How mighty wonders have been clearly seen in the discovery of these Indies, how our Sovereign Lord God desires to watch over the Spaniards, and how He also chastises those who are cruel to the Indians. B EFORE finishing this first part, it seems good that I should here mention some of the marvellous works which our Lord God has seen fit to display in the discovery which the Christian Spaniards have made in these kingdoms, as well as the punishments he has inflicted on certain notable persons. Fo
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CHAPTER CXX.
CHAPTER CXX.
Of the dioceses in this kingdom of Peru, who are the bishops of them, and of the Royal Chancellery in the City of Kings. I N many parts of this work I have treated of the rites and customs of the Indians, and of the many temples and places of worship they had, where the devil was seen and adored by them. It will now be well to mention the dioceses, and who those are who rule the churches and have charge of so many souls. After the discovery of this kingdom, as the very reverend father Don Fray V
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CHAPTER CXXI.
CHAPTER CXXI.
Of the monasteries which have been founded in Peru, from the date of its discovery down to the present year 1550. I N the previous chapter I have briefly stated what bishops there are in this kingdom, and it will now be well to mention the monasteries which have been founded in it, and who were the founders, for in these things grave worthies and some very learned doctors have assisted. In the city of Cuzco there is a house of the order of San Domingo, on the site where the Indians had their pri
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