Juan de Padilla was a Spanish explorer and missionary known for his work in the early 16th century. He played a significant role in the Spanish colonization of the Americas, particularly in the region that is now the southwestern United States. Padilla was associated with the Franciscan Order and aimed to spread Christianity among the indigenous peoples. In 1540, Padilla joined the expedition led by Francisco Vázquez de Coronado in search of the mythical Seven Cities of Gold. He is remembered for his efforts to establish missions and convert Native Americans, although his journey ultimately ended in tragedy when he was killed during a conflict with local tribes.