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Patagonia Back in Time

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You might be familiar with the name Ferdinand Magellan, who was a well known explorer from Portuguese. Magellan was actually the first to reach the land now known as Patagonia in 1520 during his voyage around the world. Before the Spaniards arrived in the Patagonian region, it was populated by several indigenous groups. Indians were the first to enjoy the land known today as Patagonia. Some records show that these people, mainly the tehuelches, were extraordinarily tall and had well developed bodies. The Spaniards quickly named these inhabitants and began calling them “Patagones.” They related them to a well known giant named “Patagon” which was a character in a variety of novels that were popular during their time. This is where the name “Patagonia” is said to have originated. Other records state that the origin of the name “Patagonia” came from the huge tracks that the tehuelches made in the snow, largely from their oversized physiques and the skin coverings that they wore on their feet. While there are still some aborigines that live in the Patagonian region today, most live in reserves or work in estancias. The region’s beauty and magnificence has remained strong throughout the years and people today continue to enjoy its brilliance.

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