Ambato city
 This city is in the center of the Ecuador, capital of Tungurahua
Province, on the Ambato River. A leading commercial and transportation
center and a mountain resort, the city is in a fertile region near the
northern foot of the volcano Chimborazo. Ambato has been damaged
frequently by earthquakes, like the one of 1949 that left the city
completely destroyed reason why today there is little evidence of the
colonial era.
Called the Garden City of Ecuador and "the City of
the three Juanes" on account of three Ecuadorian famous intellectuals
that were born there. Juan Leon Mera was a writer and poet who is most
famous for writing Ecuador's national anthem. Juan Montalvo was
another famous writer who many have named the "Cervantes of South
America". Juan Benigno Vela was a renown teacher and champion of the
Country's youth. The three Juanes had a profound impact on the
intellectual development of Ecuador and helped start the cultural
legacy that continues in Ambato today.
Ambato is known for the production of peaches, apples, grapes, pears,
oranges, and strawberries. Grain, sugarcane, and vegetables are also
grown. Local industries produce textiles, flour, canned fruit, leather
goods, rubber, wine, and furniture. General Antonio José de Sucre won
an important battle during the war for independence against Spain..
Ambato's attractions and aurrounding towns:
Ambato has developed into an architectural
marvel where modern buildings coexist elegantly with colonial
edifices. Modern structures give the city a metropolitan feel while at
the same time they enhance the remaining colonial architecture.  The
Fiesta of "Las Flores y las Frutas" during the last two weeks of
February is the City's most important celebration. This celebration
provides the best presentation of folk music in the Tungurahua
Province and includes numerous parades of colorful floats and
traditional dancers. The Fiesta demonstrates the warmth and
hospitality the people of Ambato are known for.
Ambato is a good place to buy Salasaca Amerindian
tapestries and other handicrafts (Monday is the main market day, with
smaller ones on Wednesday and Friday). Sights include the Quinta de
Mera (historic home), the local museum and the relaxing Parque Juan
Montalvo (named after the Ecuadorian political essayist)
Ambato also serves as a great base from which you
may visit surrounding towns, including:
-
Baños, located at the base of the
Tungurahua Volcano and one of Ecuador's most popular tourist
destinations.
-
San Pedro de Pelileo, famous for the
indigenous markets of the Salasaca Indians where you can find
elaborate ornamental tapestries and other handcrafts.
-
Pillaro, the regional hub for fruit
growers. Here you will find peaches, pears, and a sour but delicious
fruit called "claudias."
-
Quisapincha, located in the highlands near
Ambato, Quisapincha boasts the best and cheapest leather goods in
Ecuador.
-
Patate, a rich agricultural valley that
produces avocados, babacos, tree tomatoes, madarins, limes, and
grapes.
|
