Contemplate a hill overlooking Quito. That is Itchimbia. It is more than just a viewpoint. It is a place where history dances with nature.
The Itchimbia Park sits atop Itchimbia hill. It is 2900 meters high. Imagine the breathtaking 360-degree view. When the sky is clear you can see several volcanoes. Look for Pichincha Cayambe Antisana Atacazo Corazón and Los Illinizas.
Once, families lived here. Now Itchimbia Park has 54 hectares of beauty. This space is for everyone. You can find over 400 flower species here. Forty bird species also call this home.
The Itchimbia Cultural Center is the park’s heart. People call it the Crystal House. It is made of metal and glass. The structure once was Quito’s first closed market in Santa Clara.
Light creates magic here. Sunlight on the glass makes it sparkle. Inside the light reflects on the floor. It gives the sensation of walking on water.
The park has native plants. Aliso quishuar and pumamaqui grow here. People once gathered plants here. They used them for medicine. Itchimbia was known as Quito’s pharmacy.
Birds frogs and even foxes live here. There is an artificial wetland. It mimics the park’s original pools.
Schools are close to Itchimbia. Students fill the park with laughter. They climb trees and play games.
Walk the 2.4 km path. Enjoy sports areas. Do not worry about getting lost. Information centers are all around.
The Itchimbia is more than a park. It is a cultural landmark. It is a place for nature lovers and sports fans. It is a place where memories are created. Come and discover the magic of Itchimbia. It is open every day from 5 AM to 5 PM. The entrance is free.