Can a monument capture the spirit of a bird? At Redondel El Colibrí de Sangolquí, it absolutely does. Here, at the convergence of Avenida El Progreso and the road linking Pifo with Tambillo, stands a vibrant testament to the hummingbird. The Redondel El Colibrí de Sangolquí isn’t just a roundabout. It’s a tribute to the delicate hummingbird, a symbol of the Andean region and its rich avian diversity. Created by artist Gonzalo Endara Crow in 1989, the monument captures the hummingbird with outstretched wings, as if protecting its precious eggs.
The Redondel El Colibrí de Sangolquí is more than just metal, concrete, and ceramic. It’s a splash of color, echoing the vibrant plumage of the hummingbird itself. The green represents the constant renewal of nature. The black portrays the earth. The yellows, oranges, and golds reflect the sun’s solemnity. The deep red symbolizes struggle, effort, and blood. The dark blue embodies energy and health. Look closely at Redondel El Colibrí de Sangolquí. You’ll see the artist’s masterful use of the Naif technique. This style emphasizes simplicity and vivid colors, perfectly capturing the hummingbird’s essence.
The Redondel El Colibrí de Sangolquí stands tall, 10 meters high and 4 meters wide. It has become a symbol of Sangolquí’s identity, a cherished landmark for residents of the Valle de los Chillos. Over time, the monument faced deterioration, losing some of its ceramic tiles and even its beak. But thanks to sculptor Eddie Crespo, the Redondel El Colibrí de Sangolquí has been restored to its former glory, continuing to inspire awe and admiration. It stands as a vibrant celebration of nature’s beauty and the rich cultural heritage of the region.