First Explorers of Honduras

Christopher Columbus

• 1492: Encountered Bay Islands.
• 1494: Explored Gulf of Honduras, Guanaja, Roatán.
• 1498: Sailed along Honduras coast; named region "Honduras" (depths).

Gil González Dávila (1524)

First European to enter interior; sought gold; clashed with indigenous groups.

Hernán Cortés (1524–1526)

Pursued González Dávila; founded Gracias a Dios; used as base for further exploration.

Pedro de Alvarado (1536)

Explored further, subdued indigenous groups, sought Pacific route; harsh treatment sparked Lenca resistance.