Concept in Definition ABC

So that the inhabitants of a territory can prosper and develop their activities, it is necessary to build roads communication useful and well connected.

Currently the network of Internet, airports or railways are some of the infrastructures that facilitate the exchange information and trade. In ancient times, roads were the communication routes in the terrestrial environment and the so-called Camino Real was a type of route with high strategic value.

The term Camino Real is used in the Iberian Peninsula and in the territories of America with tradition Hispanic. These roads have officially existed since the 18th century and were promoted by the Spanish crown and for this reason the word royal is used.

Why were these roads built?

For centuries the media transport most common were carts, horses, and other pack animals. Traditional roads were not wide enough, slowed down any type of activity and in many cases were unprotected and unsafe places for travelers. Thus, to promote trade and guarantee the

safety a network of royal roads was promoted both in Spain and in America.

On the other hand, in these new land routes a post office service was created to speed up the work of public officials. The royal roads allowed to travel more comfortably, because in the posts there was a small infrastructure for the rest of the travelers and the care of the horses.

The Royal Passage of California

Spanish missionaries were the first Europeans to settle on the California peninsula. In the 17th century the Jesuits founded the first of the missions and over the years more than fifty were built between Alta California and Baja California.

Apart from the mission centers, the Spanish also built towns for the new settlers and some presidios. All these infrastructures had to be protected by the soldiers of the Spanish Crown. Thus, so that the vast territories were well communicated, the building from the Camino Real in California.

The original route of the Camino Real began in the Mission of Nuestra Señora de Loreto in Baja California and traveled almost 1,000 kilometers to the north.

Currently, many highways in the state of California run parallel to the Camino Real.

Photos: Fotolia - George / Alexanderkonsta

Themes in Camino Real