“Streets ‘culebreras’ or ‘trenzadas’ give Chimbacalle its name,” the locals say. This southern Quito neighborhood holds many stories. Today, we will explore Chimbacalle. This area is more than just a location. It’s a vibrant tapestry of history and culture.
Chimbacalle was once known as Machangarilla. This name came from its location near the Machángara River crossing. As a parish, Chimbacalle is one of Quito’s oldest. It has seen generations of families pass through. Railway workers and factory employees have all called it home.
For residents, Chimbacalle is Quito’s true capital. The train’s sound has always defined the neighborhood. Factories once echoed here too. The old church remains a central point for locals. It is their emblematic place.
Locals say that Chimbacalle has two churches. One nearly fell after an earthquake. Whether true or not, that story persists. The two buildings stand just a street apart. The old one has been restored.
The Tren de Alfaro greatly impacted Chimbacalle. But the area’s history goes back further. A document in the new church says the parish was founded in the 16th century. The train station stands where a chapel once stood.
Chimbacalle also has unique traditions. The Valencia family makes wooden cars. The serenata to the Virgen de El Quinche is another tradition. This event occurs every year.
The name “Chimbacalle” has an interesting origin. “Chimba” means “across” in Quichua. “Calle” means street in Spanish. So, Chimbacalle means “street across.” Another explanation involves the area’s winding streets. “Chimba” refers to braids in this case.
After the Quito-Guayaquil railway opened in 1908, Chimbacalle began to grow. The train station brought businesses and hotels. Factories also appeared. These factories drove the neighborhood’s urban development. In 1914, the first tram line in Quito started here. It ran from the Chimbacalle train station.
Chimbacalle also shaped Quito’s urban development. Wealthier families moved north. They built modern homes. The working class and indigenous people settled in the south.
The Molinos de cilindros ROYAL building stands near the station. It is a modernist structure from the early 20th century. This factory dates back to 1921. It ground seeds transported by train. Today, it still produces flour.
In Chimbacalle, neighborhood bonds remain strong. People still chat on street corners. Old-timers play cards and share stories. Edmundo Valencia, a market leader, is among them. Antonio Silva is another key figure. He is a dedicated leader and athlete. He was the goalkeeper for Patria, a local team.
The market offers many food options. Amparito Romero’s stall is famous. She inherited her cooking skills from her mother. Her specialty is yahuarlocro made with 100% lamb. Weekends are busy at the market. Amparito and her sister Rocío offer combos. They want customers to leave satisfied.
Chimbacalle is more than just a stop on a tour. It is a living testament to Quito’s past and present. As we leave, remember the sounds of the train. Remember the stories of the people. Let’s carry the spirit of Chimbacalle with us.