Pedro de Candia

Specialized in the use of firearms and artillery, he was one of the earliest explorers of Panama and the Pacific coastline of Colombia, and finally participated in the conquest of Peru.

During his first incursion, he went to America with Governor Pedro de los Ríos in 1526 to explore Panama and the Colombian coastline.

[5]: 114 Then sent by the Spanish Crown assigned on a special edict to engage with local natives, he accompanied Diego de Almagro and Francisco Pizarro during their first explorations along the coasts of Peru, and at the landing of Tacamez, north of Guayaquil, by then he had already the command of the artillery.

He then visited Tumbez[6] and then accompanied Pizarro to Spain to inform Charles V of their discoveries,[5]: 136  the emperor made Candia commander-in-chief of artillery of the fleet sent out to conquer Peru.

After the defeat of Almagro at Battle of Las Salinas, Candia undertook the conquest of Ambaya beyond the Andes, but was unsuccessful, being finally arrested by order of Hernando Pizarro.