Quinta El Ombú

Journey back to 1805. Imagine Viceroy Rafael de Sobremonte, pausing his journey at a tranquil spot along the barranca. He rests beneath the shade of a magnificent ombú tree. This very tree, still standing today, gives Quinta El Ombú its name. Quinta El Ombú stands as a testament to time. It witnessed the inauguration of the canal and the laying of the foundation stone for the local church. The municipality acquired Quinta El Ombú in 1970, transforming it into a cultural center. The original structure, dating back to the late 19th century, showcases an Italianate architectural style. High walls, adorned with ornate gates and railings, separate the Quinta from the street. These walls enclose a magnificent park, further enhancing its charm. The Quinta’s design echoes that of an Italian villa. It features a compact form, a flat rooftop terrace, and a symmetrical façade. The main entrance, positioned along the central axis, is further emphasized by a recessed area. This area forms a porch or gallery, supported by ornamental pillars and corbels. The side sections of the building project outward, displaying a balanced arrangement of windows. These windows are framed by cornices and French balconies, creating a pleasing contrast with the masonry balustrade balcony at the entrance. The four sides of the building maintain a balance between solid walls and open spaces. The front façade boasts a more elaborate design. This intricate detail gradually diminishes towards the sides, where smaller windows prevail. A perimeter cornice, adorned with small corbels, crowns the entire composition. The rear of the Quinta El Ombú features a pillared terrace. It once offered a breathtaking view. Unfortunately, this view is now partially obscured by neighboring properties. These properties resulted from the subdivision of the original estate. The main bedrooms were strategically oriented towards this terrace. This allowed residents to enjoy the scenic vista. Meanwhile, the ground floor housed the social and reception areas. The service wing is housed in a separate building. It’s set apart from the main house, further emphasizing the distinct functions of each space.