The horizon line when viewed from the Guayas River is punctuated by two hills on its right margin. The Santa Ana and El Carmen Hills are icons of visual reference to locate any of the principal sectors of the city. It was on the Santa Ana Hill and its surroundings that the first definite settlement of its citizens began in 1547. Settling on the “Little Green Hill”, as it was originally called, afforded complete visibility and ample possibilities for defense. Additionally, the firm ground, compared to the plains below, allowed for more solid and reliable structures. The first main church and town hall were built, and the traffic of its populace slowly trickled downward to the surrounding areas. The San Carlos and La Planchada fortifications were faced toward the river to defend against one of the most fearsome enemies of the city, pirates. Pirate battles gradually gave way to commercial endeavors.