Did you know that Guayllabamba means green plain in Kichwa? This small agricultural town holds a significant place in Ecuador’s history. It sits 29 kilometers northeast of Quito.
Guayllabamba has been inhabited by various groups throughout history. The Incas were among the most notable. They introduced specialized groups for trade and agriculture. This helped establish their political and economic system. These groups formed alliances under chieftains. These were later called ethnic domains.
Guayllabamba was a strategic supply site. It supported the conquest wars against Cochasquíes Cayambes and Caranquis. Waldemar Espinoza Soriano studied the first inhabitants. He found mitimaes specialized in agriculture and trade. They colonized and exploited uncultivated lands. This decongested crowded areas lacking natural resource management. They also established control garrisons. These controlled politics the military and the economy.
Juan de Velasco noted its fertile territory in his writings. He mentioned sugar cane and vineyards. Historian Frank Salomón described a complex of bridges and tambos on the road to Cayambe. Guamán Poma considered it a town. Cieza de León found it impressive even in its decline after 1540.
In colonial times large estates emerged. These included Puruhantag Doñana and La Victoria. Guayllabamba’s location made it a key point between northern Ecuador and Quito. It became a stage for the Independence Campaigns. Simón Bolívar Antonio José de Sucre and Manuela Sáenz led these campaigns. Bolívar expressed gratitude to the people of Guayllabamba. He acknowledged their contribution to organizing an army. This army aimed to subdue the royalist troops.
Guayllabamba witnessed confrontations between liberals and conservatives. Gabriel García Moreno legalized it as a parish. This happened on May 28 1868.
Today Guayllabamba offers several attractions. The Zoológico de Quito is a highlight. It moved here in 1997 and is Ecuador’s largest zoo. The Cactus Trail Equinoccial offers a unique experience. Calderón Central Park provides a relaxing space. Pucará de Rumicucho showcases ancient ruins. El Pisque Adventure Park adds excitement.
The Zoológico de Quito houses almost exclusively native Ecuadorian animals. Here you can see Galapagos tortoises jaguars and Andean bears. The zoo also features Andean condors Ecuador’s national bird. Some unique species include crab-eating raccoons and black-and-chestnut buzzard eagles. Many animals were rescued from the wild pet trade.
The zoo’s enclosures are well-designed and interactive. There is a mixed-species walk-through owl aviary. The reptile collection includes boas iguanas and caiman. Passionate keepers enhance the experience.
Guayllabamba a town with a rich history and natural beauty welcomes you. Its story of indigenous roots Inca influence colonial transformation and dedication to nature makes it a remarkable destination.