Ecuador travel
Tourist attractions in Latacunga
Explore the tourist attractions in Latacunga, Ecuador.
Church of the Salto- Latacunga
The Church of the Salto has its origin in the volcanic crater of the Latacunga Seat, which, transforming into violent floods of mud and materials from Cotopaxi, systematically devastated the city between the 17th and 19th centuries. Tradition points to a miraculous action, as the starting point of a dedication to the Virgin, and consequently to the installation of a suitable site for that purpose. Thus, following the logic of popular religiosity, a modest chapel called "Nuestra Señora del Salto" was built at that point, which little by little became an obligatory pilgrimage site. The 1797 earthquake seriously damaged the chapel and it was rebuilt with smaller dimensions on the same site as the original, and which at the end of the 19th century and the beginning of the 20th, became a church with a single nave and twin towers in one direction. North South. Its structure is solid, with a central dome. Illuminated by the dome, the so-called Virgen del Salto appears. On its flanks there are two small naves parallel to the central one. The entrance to the temple is formed by an arch and pumice stone capitals. When checking the stone, someone noticed that on the side facing the stream there was an image of the Virgin. This was painted by Fray Pedro Bedón in 1618 in a hermitage in charge of the Dominicans in the "Llano de San Blas" and dedicated to venerate the Virgen del Rosario. The person who found this image in the stone spread the fact to the four winds, the population removed the stone and placed it next to the Yanayacu river itself; later, the devotees raised a chapel baptizing the image as the "Pilgrim of the Jump, the Precious Pearl of Latacunga". Location: El Salto Church is located between Juan Abel Echeverría and Antonio Clavijo streets, next to the square of the same name. In the city of Latacunga, province of Cotopaxi. The highlights of Church of El Salto The Virgin of El Salto is painted in stone, the painting could be the work of Pedro Bedón, a member of the Quito school. Church Architecture: The Church of the Virgen del Santo is a traditional church with two front towers topped with domes. Its structure is solid, with a central dome. Illuminated by the dome, the so-called Virgen del Salto appears. On its flanks there are two small naves parallel to the central one. The entrance to the temple is formed by an arch and pumice stone capitals.
85.32 Km.
San Francisco Church - Latacunga
The Romanesque-style San Francisco temple was built at the beginning of the 17th century, dedicating a special site to the cult of the Immaculate Conception, whose dedication is celebrated on December 8 of each year. The Franciscan order managed to get residents of the town, such as Don Francisco de Vélez or Don Diego Ruiz de Rojas, to make donations for the construction of other chapels, even for the personal use of their prosperous faithful. History tells us that its construction was completed around 1620. Of its primitive construction, only its oval dome remained, restored 30 years ago in the 1960s. Its new nave and main facade worked in carved pumice stone were built. The material is of volcanic origin typical of the region, with an attractive bell tower with lintels that rest on staggered pillars from its base to a third of its structure, where a large ancient bronze bell is visible. The structure of the church is reconstructed in a medium-sized stone frontispiece with a small double-leaf wooden door, supported by two solid rock columns, built with transverse blocks; an open and rectilinear apse in the upper part supports a small tower with a circular apse with a series of small windows and a pointed tip. Location The Church of San Francisco is located between General Manuel Maldonado and Manual de Jesús Quijano y Ordóñez streets. In the city of Latacunga, province of Cotopaxi.
85.42 Km.
Municipal Palace of Latacunga
Its impressive design and complementary details added to the construction material make it unique and called a monument to pumice stone, a material typical of this volcanic area, which in its time was used as the very first construction material in representative buildings. Its construction begins in the first months of the year 1910, building the main part until May 24, 1918, the year in which it was inaugurated; at that time it was not possible to finish the work, but the municipal offices were accommodated. The building of the Illustrious Municipality of Latacunga, is located on the east side of the Vicente León Park and is considered one of the most important architectural pieces in the province, it constitutes a fundamental element of the Historic Center of the city, in addition to being the house of the people since time immemorial. The earthquake of August 5, 1949, damaged some structures of the building which led to its readjustment, the original project included a horseshoe theater that was discarded. It has 2 m wide by 4.5 m high arches, with 3 m wide corridors covered in stone on the north, south and west sides. On the outside you can clearly see the pumice stone, the base of the The walls are covered with cement at an approximate height of 0.80 m, painted white and yellow.
85.48 Km.
The Vicente León National Park
The Vicente León National Park was the city's main square, where the liberating campaigns took place. Its layout is classic Castilian urban planning that can be seen through the straight streets of the historic center. Its immortal cloisters are visited by national and foreign tourists. Renowned is its Zoological Museum. The ashes of the Patron of the establishment are kept in its Templete. It was inaugurated on May 24, 1977. There you can see the bust of the philanthropist, in which his greatness shines, consecrated to eternally harmonizing science and culture." The Vicente León park bears the name of the Illustrious benefactor Latacungueño, a man of extraordinary patriotism, it has an octagonal shape that in its beginnings must have been the central square of the city's urban design, a place where the religious and political military activities of the nascent city were developed. , is currently a park remodeled in its original design as it consists of different works where it can be seen that the plinth is made of white quarry andesite stone, which gives it a sober elegance, together with the wrought iron fence that surrounds the park. Address The Vicente León Park is located on Sánchez de Orellana and Padre Salcedo streets. Highlights of Vicente León Park Monument to Dr. Vicente León: In the center of the park there is a large monument in honor of the illustrious character who bears his name. Built in Italy, precisely by a former student of the Vincentian campus, Carlos Mayer Stacey, a monument opened on August 10, 1925. The Cathedral: In 1975 it was intervened to carry out restoration and ornamentation works. The Cathedral is a symbol for Latacungueños as it represents the faith of a people with history and tradition
85.49 Km.
Latacunga Cathedral
The construction is of Romanesque style, inside there is an altar worked in pumice stone, it has artistic works and colonial images; in the tower you can see a corrillon, a set of bell towers that announce the hours and the performed ucharists. It is one of the emblematic buildings of the city and represents the evident symbol of faith of the Latacungueños. The Cathedral was the center of the Augustinian campaign for indoctrination and evangelization that covered native sites such as: Sigchos and Isinliví, Angamarca, Pangua, Poaló, Cusubamba, Salachí, San Agustín del Callo and Barracas. The construction of the Cathedral rests on a plan of three naves in a north-south direction, a site respected until today, the Cathedral was built towards the west from 1950. In the earthquake of 1797 it was completely destroyed and a new construction arises to from 1850; this new building configured a new base with two transepts and a chapel and at its completion two twin towers and a dome were built, a copy of Saint Peter's in Rome. In the style of Father Nicolás Herrera. Location: The Cathedral Church is located between General Maldonado and Quito streets, Latacunga city, Cotopaxi province.
85.55 Km.
Vicente Leon School -Latacunga
The style is sober and somewhat resembles the conventual architectural style of the late 18th century. The complex stands on a block in the downtown area of the city, one block from Vicente León Park. It was created by President Juan José Flores on May 7, 1840 and was inaugurated on May 24, 1977, being Rec-tor the Lcdo. Oswaldo Rivera Villavicencio. The cloisters in this line provide a harmonious and restful environment for visitors. The second level rises inside from a set of Doric columns. You can see the white color pregnant with serenity, nobility and powerful faith to cultivate science and virtue, and the stone that raises effort and drive. In one of the inner courtyards you can admire the bust of the philanthropist Dr. Vicente León, who, with his selfless support, managed to shape this educational institution. Illustrious men were educated in its cloisters, many of whom directed the destinies of the country: Ignacio de Veintimilla, Antonio Flores Jijón, Alberto Enríquez Gallo, Camilo Ponce Enríquez, General Guillermo Rodríguez Lara, Luís Felipe Borja, Juan Montalvo, Belisario Quevedo, Marco Tulio Varea, Luís Fernando Ruiz, Manuel Pallares, Juan Sáenz de Viten, Luciano Moral, Juan Abel Echeverría, Rafael Quevedo, Rafael Cajiao, among other characters. The ashes of the patron of the establishment are kept in its temple. Inside there are paintings and portraits from the 15th, 18th and 19th centuries, of Father Manuel Salcedo, Eloy Alfaro, Rafael Quevedo, Antonio José de Sucre, Simón Bolívar, Vicente León, Manuela Cañizares, José Mejía Lequerica.
85.56 Km.
Isidro Ayora School Museum
The Museum of the Isidro Ayora School is the result of the philanthropic work of outstanding Latacungueños, among whom the Master Rodrigo Campaña Escobar stands out. It houses one of the most important archaeological collections of the Panzaleo aboriginal culture - made up of nearly 2000 pieces - which include: domestic utensils, body adornments and more; Important samples of Andean folklore, botanical and faunal species of the country and an important numismatic sample are added to this collection. Schedule: From Monday to Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Address: San Francisco neighborhood. Quijano and Ordoñez Streets (corner) and Tarqui, city of Latacunga contacts Telephone(s): (03) 280 1401 Director and/or Responsible Nelson Espín Cell.: 099 587 7217 E-mail: isidroayora.35@gmail.com
85.59 Km.
Church of San Agustin in Latacunga
This building has been devastated by the harshness of several telluric events that hit the area. On the same site, today stands a magnificent building consisting of a single nave with a transept and two adjoining chapels, it has a dome with artistic characteristics, similar to the dome of St. Peter's in Rome, and next to it stands the convent space . Inside you can see a collection of works of art related to the religious life of the Augustinian Order. Location The Church of San Agustín is located between the streets Hnas. Paez and Quito. Highlights of Iglesia de San Agustín Inside the temple we find the main altar with the replica of the Virgen del Quinche (on the left side) and Saint Augustine, Patron Saint of the Sanctuary, on the right side. The altar is built of wood and gold leaf. The west transept contains the sculpture of the Lord of the Forsaken, in a structure of 6 pillars, Doric, with a vaulted upper stained glass window. The transept contains the sculpture of Jesus "The Lord of Good Hope", with a structure of 6 pillars of Doric art with circumferential vaulting and a stained glass window of various colors.
85.77 Km.
Ignacio Flores Nautical Park
The Ignacio Flores Nautical Park is also known as Alameda Park due to the abundance of Alamos that embellished the sector. It consists of a lagoon formed by a natural "Ojo de Agua", the traditional "Timbug Pugyu", it is par excellence the meeting, relaxation and recreation place for Latacungueños and visitors. The lagoon has an oval shape, approximately one hectare in length, a complex has been built in the center, to access this "islet" you cross an ornamental bridge of modern design made of concrete, at the moment it has been remodeled adding facilities such as a wooden platform for shows, children's games, outdoor exercise machines, library, children's play area, green spaces, signage, cycle paths around the 4 m wide cobbled park. Night lighting of the lagoon, ecological garbage dumps, sites of rest such as benches, tables, and a pedestrian path for those who enjoy walking; there are also cypress trees (Cupresus sp), white brush (Callistemon citrinus) and palms It has a service Boats, stage for shows, children's games and large green spaces. Location: The Laguna Ignacio Flores Nautical Park is located in the Miraflores sector in the cantonal capital of Latacunga.
85.78 Km.
Putzalahua Hill
Cerro Putzalahua, is conical in shape, constitutes a true viewpoint towards the city of Latacunga. Guardian of various hamlets, neighborhoods and parishes of Latacunga. Considered one of the most important in Cotopaxi. It contrasts with the extensive crops that exist in the surroundings of the hill and finally the typical vegetation cover of the moor. From the top of the peak, it is possible to see volcanoes such as: Cotopaxi, Tungurahua, Altar, Illinizas, Chimborazo and Carihuairazo. In addition, you can see the city of Latacunga, Salcedo, part of Pujilí and the Belisario Quevedo parish. Considered as a site for walks, recreational practices, interpretive talks, cycling and extreme sports such as motocross, bicycle cross and paragliding. Its name means in native language "hill of water". Location Cerro Putzalahua is located 15 kilometers from the city of Latacunga, in the Belisario Quevedo parish.
88.39 Km.
Quilotoa Lagoon
HISTORY OF LA LAGUNA DE QUILOTOA It has the appearance of a Caribbean island, but embedded in the middle of the Andes. The Quilotoa surprises more than one. From the viewpoint, located at 4,000 meters above sea level, you can see the lagoon formed in the crater of a volcano. The water, for minerals, has different shades: green, turquoise, blue. Natives, handicrafts, flora, fauna, constructions, climate, gastronomy and geography make this Andean tourist attraction one of the most sought after by national and international tourism. The journey to Quilotoa is also part of the tourist attraction, as it zigzags through the Andes and enters the Andean páramo. In the mornings, the greens of the mountains change their shade by the sun and, in the afternoon, the mist paints the duly signposted road with white. To get there, take the Latacunga-La Maná road, built by the current government. Upon reaching the town of Zumbahua, the ascent road continues for 15 more kilometers. The income costs $ 1 for Ecuadorians and $ 2 for foreigners. The vehicle arrives at a parking lot and, in its surroundings, there are crafts made by the inhabitants of Quilotoa. In addition, small restaurants, or food stalls, offer typical products of the area such as corn and beans. The food will give energy for the descent towards the lagoon. For about 30 minutes, along a dusty road, but marked with stones and sticks, you reach the edge of the Quilotoa lagoon. The cold is intense and the inhabitants of the area offer a variety of products: coffee, tea, water, soft drinks, fried foods. In addition, the transportation service is provided on horse or mule for the ascent. At a rapid pace it would rise in 1 hour and on horse it is done in 45 minutes. Tourists can also sleep in the area, in rustic cabins. The temperature at night can go down to 6 degrees in summer. They cost $ 10 per night. So in the morning you can take the time to take a boat tour of the 3 kilometers that the lagoon has. The main attraction is in certain areas where the fumaroles of the volcano are still active and heat the water. The Quilotoa lagoon is considered one of the most beautiful lagoons of volcanic origin on the planet. The most significant feature of this lagoon, with a depth of 250 meters, are its turquoise green waters. Quilotoa is the westernmost volcano of the Ecuadorian Andes, within its crater a caldera with a diameter of almost 9 km has been formed. This is the product of the collapse of the volcano, which occurred some 800 years ago. According to studies, the volcanic flow managed to reach the Pacific Ocean. In the 250 m deep boiler, a lagoon has formed. The minerals have given the surface a greenish and bluish tone when it receives the impact of sunlight. Inside, there are springs that from the shore, can be perceived as bubbling steles that rise to the surface. The popularity of Quilotoa is due to the beauty of its landscapes and the spectacle of calm waters. In the community of Quilotoa, also known as the Route of the "Summit" and which is accessed by bus from the town of Zumbahua, visitors can make ecotourism and adventure tourism with a high dose of adrenaline or simply contemplate the nearby landscapes . Even this place is close to what many researchers assume as the last resting place of the Inca Atahualpa, so this was the last sacred route of the Incas. Visiting Quilotoa is an overwhelming experience at approximately 4 thousand meters above sea level. How to get to Laguna Quilotoa? Tourists who visit the volcano and the Quilotoa lagoon use the frequencies of buses that depart daily and at different times to Latacunga and from this city, they use the services that link Latacunga, Pujilí, Zumbahua (64.33 km) and from this town to Quilotoa (12.67 km). The approximate travel time from Latacunga to Mirador de Quilota is 1 hour. How to get to Laguna Quilotoa from Quito in private vehicle? It is the best recommendation and the easiest way to get to the place but you also have other options such as renting a car or you can get a transport service with a professional person at the wheel and so you can enjoy the landscape much better. If your budget is not that high do not worry there is an option for you too, public transport; buses leave from the Quitumbe terminal in Quito and arrive at Latacunga. How to get to Laguna Quilotoa by Bus? From the Terrestrial Terminal of the city of Latacunga you can buy a ticket in a transport cooperative in the direction of La Maná or Zumbahua, with a journey of approximately 1H47 minutes you can get to Zumbahua and from there rent a van or some means of transportation till the Laguna. What to do in the Quilotoa lagoon? It is possible to take short and long walks around the crater of the volcano or descend to the waters of the lagoon, there is even a horseback riding service. The sector is ideal for camping and for the practice of astrography. Approximately 45 minutes from the main access control, there is a viewpoint built with wood and glass, which allows you to rest while contemplating the turquoise green waters. The inhabitants of the sector make handicrafts, such as ponchos, coats, hats and masks from the representation of the Devil Huma. Community tourism with affordable prices. Where to stay in the Quilotoa Lagoon? In the Quilotoa, Zumbahua, Tigua, Shalalá, Chugchilán, Itupungo and Guayama San Pedro communities, accommodation of different types is offered, such as hostels, hotels, cabins, hostels and inns. They also rent horses and water transport such as kayaks and boats, supporting the practice of sports activities that are carried out in the radius of influence of the Quilotoa Tourist Circuit, such as Trekking, Hiking, Horseback Riding, Camping and High Rodeo. Quilotoa Weather In the Quilotoa lagoon the climate is approximately between 12 degrees Celsius, emphasizing that sometimes it reaches up to 20. If you plan to visit the place you must remember that between the months of January and May the rains are more frequent. Quilotoa Food In the place you can find food from a dollar like corn with cheese or different dishes that range between $ 5. Potatos with cuy There are also typical dishes made of barley rice ground in stone, with milk and panela. Cooked potatoes, beans, melloco, Choclos with cheese Mash with pork fat and pork Potatoes with beef from Borrego Creole chicken broth Bighorn broth Beef broth Purple wash with wawas of bread, this product is consumed in the times of the finados in all homes. Pouring sweet yellow corn, this dish is savored to receive jokes in social engagements. Dishes of Fanesca, in seasons of holy week. Legend of the Quilotoa Lagoon The legend says that from the center of the volcano (circular caldera) emerged the fearsome god Quilotoa, who destroyed everything in its path. Toachi, another of the Andean gods, appeared from the lagoon to fight Quilotoa. When Quilotoa erupted, the waters of the lagoon reflected the color of the gray sky, which provoked Toachi's anger. Pachacamac created a sacred bird to mediate in that conflict. The condor was chosen to watch over them and thus flew over those lands carrying news of the conflict. One fine day, the bird saw from above a beautiful woman who grazed her sheep in the moor and was spellbound. He decided to become human and took the personality of a pastor who slept very close.
90.72 Km.
We have 23 tourist attractions listed in Latacunga, Ecuador.