Casa de los León

The history of Petare is marked by distinguished figures who left an invaluable legacy to the community. Among them is Ana Francisca Pérez de León, known for her humanitarian and philanthropic work, especially after the devastating earthquake of 1812.

In this article we explore the life of this benefactor, her impact on Petare's history and how her legacy lives on today through the institutions that bear her name.

The León family house: a witness to Petare's history

Built in the early 19th century by the León family, the house has great historical importance for Petare and Venezuela. Among the family's notable members was Juan Francisco León, who led a rebellion against the Guipuzcoana Company on 19 April 1749. It was also the home of Baltasar León and his wife Ana Francisca Pérez de León, one of Petare's great benefactors.

The 1812 earthquake and Ana Francisca Pérez de León's help

According to chronicler Lorenzo Vargas Mendoza, the Holy Thursday earthquake of 1812 caused serious damage in Petare, affecting the parish church and many homes. Although there were no victims, the lack of resources hit the poorest families especially hard.

Ana Francisca Pérez de León's humanitarian work

In the midst of the crisis, Ana Francisca Pérez de León stood out for her humanitarian work. Together with her servants, she went around the affected areas providing food and resources to rebuild the homes of those most in need.

The legacy of Ana Francisca Pérez de León

During those days, Ana Francisca saw the town's need for a hospital and donated 16,600 pesos to create one. Her remains rest in the Church of Dulce Nombre de Jesús, and the hospital she helped found bears her name: the Pérez de León Hospital.

Ana Francisca's house today

Today, the former home of Ana Francisca Pérez de León houses the "Misia Ana de Infante" Petare Public Library, on the corner of Miranda and Pacheco streets. Its interior was renovated in 2024.