Macondo is originally a village founded c. 1810 by 21 individuals. Over the next several decades the town grows into a considerable urban center with many inhabitants. During its early years it exists in nearly complete isolation but during the period discussed by the novel it begins to become integrated with the larger, national, society. The town is the principle setting for most of the novel.
At several points in the novel various gypsy bands visit Macondo and bring alone various wonders from the outside world. Most of the wonders are recent scientific inventions which the gypsies present as foreign magic. For example, a block of ice is so novel and unanticipated that Jose Arcadio Buendia is literally stunned by the frozen water's presence.
Upon his final death, the gypsy Melquiades leaves.....
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