The Spaniards walked around Tumbes and saw fine buildings, planted fields, and irrigation canals. This, no question about it, was a well-ordered and advanced civilization. Meanwhile, as news of the strangers spread, crowds of people came into the streets and followed them, full of interest and fearlessly asking questions.

As Alonso de Molina walked freely around the streets, "many Indian women who were beautiful and well dressed came up to talk with him using sign language" — an interesting example of the independence of Inca women — which survives in traditional Andean society today. One "very beautiful woman" in the group suggested that he might stay and take one of her friends in marriage. The warmth of the welcome, the people's lively interest , the independence of mind and their humorous curiosity, all made a great impression on the Spaniards.

Nueva Corónica y Buen Gobierno
(Letter to a King)

The Aclla, or "Virgins of the Sun," were chosen for their beauty at a young age and separated from their communities. They were given to the Inca as a sign of allegiance. It was customary for the Inca to give the Aclla to nobles as reward for good service.