Jornadas que hicieron El Capitn. General Don Fco. Vasqz. d. Coronado y sus Capitanes Durante los anos 1539-1542

A modern interpretation of the 16th century Spanish Empire in America.

The journey of Francisco Vázquez de Coronado through modern day Mexico and the southwestern United States between 1540 – 1542 is one of the most legendary feats of exploration in the history of North America. In his search for the legendary Seven Cities of Gold, Coronado led parties ranging from hundreds to a few dozen men across thousands of miles of unknown territory. Eventually reaching as far as Kansas, his group were the first Europeans to see the Grand Canyon, as well as the Colorado and Arkansas Rivers.

This map, issued over four centuries after Coronado’s journey, commemorates his exploration in a pictorial style ironically reminiscent of the groups the Spanish wiped out in their conquest of the New World. The dual compass roses and European coat of arms on either side provides a fascinating juxtaposition of cultures.

Within the image (oriented to the west), the route of Coronado, dressed in green, can be traced from Mexico to the mythical city of Quivira. Illustrations of Native American tribes, many of whom were contacted by Europeans for the first time, are scattered throughout; along with buffalo, local flora, and the wandering conquistadores. Important events such as the conquest of Cibola, reinforcement by sea, sighting of the Grand Canyon, and exploration of the Colorado River by Melchior Diaz, are also noted within the map.

The historic view was drawn by Don Perceval and published in 1960 by the Southwestern Monuments Association. Printed in Tucson by Arizona Lithographers.