Sent out by Hernán Cortés with 120 horsemen, 300 foot soldiers and several hundred Cholula and Tlascala auxiliaries, Pedro de Alvarado was engaged in the conquest of the highlands of Guatemala from 1523 to 1527. He left Tenochtitlán, with 120 Cavalry units, 160 crossbowers and riflemen, 4 heavy artillery pieces, 300 infantry men, and 20,000 tlaxcaltec, cholulas, and mexicas. He entered Guatemala from Soconusco on the Pacific lowlands and then headed for Xetulul Humbatz, Zapotitlan.
Alvarado at first allied himself with the Cakchiquel nation to fight against their traditional rivals the Quiché nation. He began his conquest in Xepau Olintepeque, defeating the K'iché's 72,000 men, led by Tecún Umán (now Guatemala's national hero). Alvarado then went to Gumarcaj, (Utatlan), the K'iché capital, and burned it on March 7, 1524
He proceeded to Iximche, and established near there in Tecpan on July 25, 1524, to launch several campaigns to other cities, as Chuitinamit, the capital of the Tzutuhils,(1524), Mixco Viejo, capital of the Poqomams, and Zaculeu, capital of the Mam, (1525). He was named Captain General in 1527. Feeling his position secure, Alvarado turned against his allies Cakchiquels, meeting them in several battles until they were subdued in 1530.
If you would like to learn more about the fascinating history of Antigua visit our website.
Palacio Doña Leonor is a boutique hotel in the colonial town of Antigua Guatemala, we encourage you visit us to continue the history lesson about the Spanish colonial era and experience for yourself the wonderful attractions, things to do and places to stay.
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