How about tasting a piece of history? Right here in Pintag, a rural town southeast of Quito, lies a story etched in its landscapes. Pintag is more than just a location. It is a testament to the spirit of resistance and tradition.
Pintag proudly sits in the Valle de los Chillos. The majestic Antisana volcano looms nearby. This volcano watches over the streams and moors. The altitude here reaches 9284 feet above sea level.
Our journey begins with General Pintag. He was a Quito leader. In pre-Columbian times, he chose this area as his base. He bravely resisted the Inca invasion. According to legend, Huayna Capac ordered a drum made of his skin after defeating him. The town was founded in 1861. It was named in honor of this courageous leader.
Pintag is known for its agricultural richness. Fertile fields produce cereals, legumes, and vegetables. Livestock thrives here. The industriousness of its people is evident.
The influence of the Dominican order marked the Colony. They began evangelizing the territories. The Virgen del Rosario became the patron saint.
The chacarera culture defines Pintag. This culture embodies mountain knowledge. It includes riding skills and cattle management. The people here are expert horsemen. They are renowned for their sense of direction.
Look to the horizon and see the Antisana volcano. Its shadow touches everything around Pintag. It creates a fascinating mix of habitats.
High up in the Paramo is Yanasacha. It teems with wildlife. Hawks, condors, rabbits, and curiquingues can be spotted.
Not far away, the Sincholagua volcano rises. It is surrounded by grasslands. It is ideal for trekking. Deer, pumas, and wolves roam here. You might even see the chuquiragua flower.
The Muertepungo and La Mica lagoons are essential stops. Muertepungo offers a rugged landscape. It is perfect for horseback riding and hiking. La Mica is nestled on Antisana’s slopes.
Pintag is a source of water for Quito. This town has traditions, culture, and nature. They fuel the entrepreneurial spirit here.
Meet Rosalino Bautista. He is probably Pintag’s most recognized man. He preserves the musical tradition of the pingullo. It is a wind instrument used to sing traditional melodies. The pingullo’s sound is life to him.
The Yanasacha Warmi is the country’s first group of amateur mountaineering women. They offer trekking services. They see the mountain as their school.
At the Gran Cascada de Pita Tourist Center, adrenaline awaits. Canopy, tarabita, a Tibetan bridge, and a swing provide thrills.
Paquita’s Bakery offers local flavors. “Carlitos” and empanadas are favorites. Paquita has a deep love for her land.
The Band of Musicians General Rumiñahui is an emblematic band. It is 101 years old. It is present at every celebration.
The main celebrations are the Festivities of San Jerónimo and the Virgen del Rosario. They include horseback riding, horse races, and cultural events.
Pintag comes alive with colors. Violets, yellows, and golds flood its sunsets.