Hernando de Vargas

Hernando de Vargas
Portrait of Hernando de Vargas, 1734
Born	Hernando Diego de Vargas y Alvarado (1690-03-17)17 March 1690 Santa Isla, Kingdom of Pecario
Died	4 June 1745(1745-06-04) (aged 55) Sierra Otoclo, Pecario
Other names	El Último Conquistador, El Cartógrafo de Pecario
Occupation	Navigator, cartographer, ethnographer, explorer of Pecario
Spouse(s)	Maria Isabella de la Cruz y Montoya

Hernando de Vargas (1690–1745) was an Iberic explorer, ethnographer and cartographer known for his extensive expeditions in the uncharted territories of Pecario during the 18th century. Born in Santa Isla, Hernando developed a fascination with geography and natural sciences, leading him to embark on multiple journeys from 1720 to 1745. His detailed observations resulted in one of the first comprehensive maps of the region, documenting significant mountains in the Cordillera del Sol and cultural practices of indigenous tribes. Despite his tragic death during in a landslide on Sierra Otoclo, de Vargas's legacy endures through his influential writings and maps, which continue to inspire modern exploration and scholarship in Pecario. His spouse, Maria Isabella de la Cruz, played a vital role in preserving and promoting his work after his passing.

Biography

Born in 1690 in the coastal city of Santa Isla, of Iberic descent, Hernando de Vargas exhibited an insatiable curiosity about the natural world from a young age. Influenced by stories of exploration and discovery, he studied geography and natural sciences, gaining a deep appreciation for cartography and the diverse ecosystems of Alharu and Mesothalassa. At 16, he attended the University of Santa Borbones, where he studied geography and natural sciences. This education instilled in him a deep appreciation for cartography and the diverse ecosystems of the Monteflor region.

From 1720 to 1745, Hernando embarked on numerous arduous journeys across the rugged terrain of Pecario. With a small team of explorers and local guides, he traversed daunting mountains, lush valleys, and treacherous rivers. His meticulous observations led to the creation of one of the first comprehensive maps of Pecario, detailing significant geographical features of the Cordillera del Sol.

Hernando was also a keen ethnographer, documenting the customs and traditions of indigenous tribes, including the Quepec people. His journals provided valuable insights into the region's flora and fauna, contributing significantly to the scientific knowledge of the time. He cataloged over 300 plant species and 150 animal species, many of which had never been recorded by Europan scholars.

Death

Tragically, Hernando de Vargas met his end during a final expedition in 1745. While attempting to summit Sierra Otoclo, a fierce storm swept through the region, unleashing violent winds and heavy snowfall. The conditions proved too severe for the team, leading to disorientation and treacherous slips on the icy slopes. Hernando, known for his bravery and leadership, chose to help a struggling member of his team and was subsequently caught in a landslide.

Though his companions managed to return to safety, Hernando was lost to the mountain's wrath. In the years that followed, local legends emerged, claiming that the winds of Pico Viento carried his spirit, guiding lost travelers and whispering secrets of the mountain to those who dared to climb its heights. In his honor, the indigenous tribes of Pecario hold annual ceremonies at the mountain’s base, celebrating his contributions and honoring his memory.

Legacy

Hernando de Vargas's work is celebrated as foundational in the field of Pecarian geography. His maps remained in use for generations, guiding future explorers and settlers in their quests. The journals he authored, filled with rich descriptions of landscapes, encounters, and indigenous cultures, were published posthumously by his spouse, Maria Isabella de la Cruz, who played a vital role in preserving and promoting his work after his passing. His work became an essential reading for scholars and adventurers alike.

Legacy Monuments

• Statue of Hernando de Vargas: A prominent statue erected in Plaza de la Exploración in Santa Borbones
• Hernando de Vargas Memorial Park: A park dedicated to him in Valleluz
• Museum of Hernando de Vargas: A museum dedicated to him in his hometown of Santa Isla