History of Gualmatan

After the arrival of the Spanish conquistadors, Gualmatán becomes a resting point for hikers traveling between Pasto and Quito. In 1536 an expedition of four Spanish and three thousand Indians led by Sebastián de Belalcazar reaches the region in search of El Dorado and submitted to the local population. By 1550, Captain Alonso de Ahumada becomes owner of the parcel that extends from ridges to the desert Rucio (Paja Blanca). The Jesuits inherit the assignment that is given to the Captain Diego de Benavides in 1589.

With the advent of the Lord of Miracles in 1611, are set out in the region of Asencio Tepud Carlosama , Francisco Chalapud of Aldana , Jose Cuaspud of Pupiales and their families, being considered