Ambato

About

A city with spectacular mountain views, it is a place with many monikers. Known as the “Garden Of Ecuador” due to the large amount of fruit, vegetables, and wine produced in the area. Also known as the “City of the Three Juans” in relation to it’s three beloved writers who were born here, and they are still commemorated here with statues and museums. Finally, it’s third name “City of Flowers and Fruits” is well earned with it’s plentiful parks filled with beautiful flowers and tree-lined streets. The city was almost completely destroyed during the 1949 earthquake and was rebuilt over the course of two years. The white modernist cathedral is striking to look at, and there are a couple of museums worth a visit (Quinta de Juan Leon Mera, and the Museo de Ciencias Naturales Hector Vasquez). The Monday markets are especially an experience not to be missed.