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Quadrant C19 – Southern Visayas & Northern Mindanao on the Murillo Velarde 1734 Map

This section of the Murillo Velarde 1734 map highlights the southern Visayas and northern Mindanao regions, significant for their maritime routes, indigenous settlements, and early Spanish influence.

Key Features in the Image:

1. Geographical Locations Identified:

   • Bohol is prominently labeled as “BOJOL,” with its coastal features detailed.

   • The northern coast of Mindanao is visible, showing locations such as Cagayan de Misamis (Cagayan de Oro today) and Caraga, an important historical region.

   • The Camiguin Island is present, marked near its actual position between Bohol and Mindanao.

   • Islands forming the eastern part of Cebu and Leyte are also mapped, showing the strategic maritime routes connecting these islands.

2. Nautical Elements:

   • Rhumb lines (compass bearings) suggest the navigation routes commonly used during Spanish rule.

   • Maritime passages such as the Caraga coast and the Cebu-Bohol channel are marked, indicating their importance for trade and galleon navigation.

3. Notable Landmarks & Settlements:

   • Various settlements and ports are labeled, showing pre-colonial and Spanish-established communities.

   • “Caraga” is mentioned, which was a vital center for the early Spanish missions and military outposts in Mindanao.

4. Decorative & Textual Elements:

   • The islands and coastlines are drawn in great detail, emphasizing the importance of these regions in colonial expansion and commerce.

   • Some locations have Spanish names, indicating early missionary or military influence.

Historical Significance:

• Bohol’s Role in Early Colonial History: Known for its Blood Compact (Sandugo) between Legazpi and Datu Sikatuna, Bohol was an early site of Spanish interaction.

• Mindanao’s Early Christianization Attempts: The Caraga region was an important focus of Spanish missionary efforts, with Jesuits establishing missions among indigenous groups.

• Strategic Importance for the Galleon Trade & Defense: The maritime routes shown in this quadrant were crucial for transporting goods, soldiers, and missionaries between the Visayas and Mindanao.