The History of Lempira

Lempira is the national hero of Honduras and the name of the national currency.

Lempira was the chief of the Lenca, an ethnic group linked to the Maya culture. The great warrior united more than two hundred tribes that had once been ancient enemies and organized a fierce resistance against the Spanish conquistadors.

While the mighty Aztecs fell under the Spanish sword in 1521, just three years after Cortez first landed on the shores of Mexico, the Maya held strong under Lempira.

Lempira made his final stand and announced his plans to expel the Spaniards from Mesoamerica. He organized a stronghold in Etempica and defiantly battled the powerful conquistadors for six months.

In an act of treachery, the Spaniards signaled for peace only to open fire as Lempira appeared on the cliff. His lifeless body rolled over the rock, and his followers, panic stricken, gave no further resistance.