José Celestino Mutis: The scientist who illuminated New Granada

José Celestino Mutis (1732-1808) was one of the most brilliant minds of the Age of Enlightenment in Latin America. Doctor, botanist, mathematician and priest, his legacy transcends time and remains a key figure in the history of science and exploration of the American continent.

Born on April 6, 1732 in Cádiz, Spain, Mutis demonstrated an interest in science from a young age. He studied medicine at the University of Seville, where he also trained in mathematics and physics. Under the influence of European scientific advances, especially the works of Isaac Newton, Mutis developed a modern, experimental vision of science, which he would later apply in his studies in the New World.

The Expedition to New Granada

In 1760, Mutis arrived in America as personal physician to Viceroy Pedro Mesía de la Cerda. Established in New Granada (present-day Colombia), he soon became interested in the natural wealth of the region. In 1763, he proposed the creation of a botanical expedition to catalog the flora and fauna of the territory. Although this proposal was officially approved only in 1783, Mutis began collecting and studying plants upon his arrival.

Scientific Contributions

The Royal Botanical Expedition

For more than 25 years, Mutis led the Royal Botanical Expedition of the Viceroyalty of New Granada. This monumental project brought together a team of artists, scientists and students who documented thousands of plant species. Among his most notable achievements are:

The classification of more than 6,000 plant species.

The introduction of Linnaeus nomenclature in Latin America.

The creation of botanical illustrations that are still considered works of art and science.

(Photo: Wikimedia Commons)

Studies on Quina

Mutis was one of the first to study the medicinal properties of cinchona, a tree native to the Andes whose bark was used to treat malaria. His work helped improve knowledge about this natural resource and its use in medicine.

Astronomy and Mathematics

In addition to botany, Mutis made important contributions in astronomy. He was responsible for the installation of the first astronomical observatory in Latin America, located in Santafé de Bogotá, and contributed to the study of eclipses and planetary transits.

Recognitions

Mutis’s death in 1808 did not stop the influence of his work. His scientific heritage inspired future generations of naturalists, including Alexander von Humboldt, who deeply admired his studies. Today, Mutis is remembered as a pioneer of science in Latin America.

Institutions in his honor

The José Celestino Mutis Botanical Garden in Bogotá is named after him.

Various plant species discovered during the expedition have also been named in his honor.

José Celestino Mutis was much more than a botanist; He was a visionary whose curiosity and dedication helped build the foundations of scientific knowledge in Latin America. His story reminds us of the power of science to explore, understand and value our natural world.