Ever wondered where Quito’s cry for freedom was immortalized? Here, before the Declaración Plaque, we stand at a powerful reminder of Ecuador’s fight for independence.
The Declaración Plaque marks a pivotal moment in Quito’s history. It’s found in Independence Plaza. This plaza, also known as Big Plaza, sits in the heart of Quito’s colonial downtown.
The Spanish conquistadores founded the city here. Around the Plaza stand four key national buildings. These are the Presidential Palace, the Municipality, the Metropolitan Cathedral, and the Archbishop’s Palace.
Independence Plaza gained its official name in 1906. This was nearly a century after Quito’s first independence movement. It happened on August 10, 1809. A grand sculpture commemorates those early patriots. At the statue’s peak stands Lady Liberty. She is a Roman goddess symbolizing this critical event in Ecuador’s history.
Along the statue’s base, you’ll find four commemorative plaques. They are cast in steel. One plaque, placed by President Alfaro, tells the story of the first independence movement. Another plaque depicts the signing of Quito’s Declaration of Independence. The third plaque presents the actual text of the Declaration. The last one portrays the assassination of the patriots by Spanish soldiers on August 2, 1810.
On August 10, 1809, citizens of the Audencia Real de Quito rebelled against Spanish rule. This day is known as El Primer Grito de La Independencia. That means the First Cry for Freedom.
Juan Pío Montúfar and José Cuero y Caicedo led the charge. They and other representatives signed El Acta de Independencia de 1809. This document confirmed their commitment to a new government. It mirrors the signing of the Declaration of Independence in the United States.
The Spanish colonial government responded with troops. They came from Popayan, Pasto, and Guayaquil. The revolutionary board allowed the troops entry. The agreement was that no reprisals would occur. But less than a year later, the colonial government massacred over 300 revolutionaries in Quito.
This massacre didn’t extinguish the revolution’s fire. Quito’s Independence Act included a rallying cry. It called other South American cities to join the cause. Quito became known as Luz de América meaning Light of America.
Despite these events, Quito didn’t achieve full independence until May 24, 1822. That was the date of the Battle of Pichincha.
The Declaración Plaque stands as a testament. It reminds us of Quito’s courage. It symbolizes the enduring spirit of those who sought freedom. Take a moment to reflect on their sacrifices. Consider their impact on Ecuador’s history. Their actions echo even today.