"First Spanish-language version, and first complete edition in any language, of Cicala's 1771 Descrizione istorico-física de la Provincia del Quito, heretofore known only through excerpts. Italian Jesuit who spent nearly 23 years (1743-67) in the future Ecuador provides minute description of the Audiencia of Quito. Exceptionally important historical geography source. Includes chapters on Popayán and Pasto and their districts"--Handbook of Latin American Studies, v. 58.