Information
Landmark: Villa Carlos PazCity: Cordoba City
Country: Argentina
Continent: South America
Villa Carlos Paz, Cordoba City, Argentina, South America
The Catedral de Ambato is a Roman Catholic cathedral located in the city center of Ambato, Ecuador.
Visual Characteristics
The cathedral features a neoclassical architectural style. Its facade is constructed primarily of stone, with a prominent central dome. The exterior walls are painted a light cream color, accented by darker stone detailing around windows and doorways. The structure stands approximately 30 meters in height.
Location & Access Logistics
The cathedral is situated in the central plaza of Ambato, Parque Montalvo. It is directly accessible from Calle Bolivar and Calle Rocafuerte. Ample public parking is available in the surrounding streets and in a multi-level parking garage located 200 meters east of the plaza. Several local bus routes terminate or pass through the central plaza, including routes 1, 5, and 12.
Historical & Ecological Origin
The current structure of the Catedral de Ambato was largely completed in the early 20th century, with construction beginning in 1906. It replaced an earlier church that had been damaged by earthquakes. The design is attributed to architect Emilio Rocafuerte. Its original purpose was to serve as the principal religious center for the Diocese of Ambato.
Key Highlights & Activities
Visitors can observe the interior architecture and religious artwork. The main altar features a large crucifix. Organ recitals are occasionally held on weekends. Photography is permitted inside the main sanctuary.
Infrastructure & Amenities
Restrooms are available within the cathedral complex. Limited shaded areas are present in the adjacent Parque Montalvo. Cell phone signal (4G) is generally strong in the vicinity. Food vendors and small cafes are located around Parque Montalvo.
Best Time to Visit
For interior viewing and photography, the best time of day is between 10:00 AM and 12:00 PM, when natural light enters through the dome. The months of June through September offer drier weather conditions. No specific tide requirements apply.
Facts & Legends
A notable historical detail is that the cathedral's construction was significantly funded by local donations following the devastating 1949 Ambato earthquake, with many citizens contributing what they could to rebuild their city's spiritual heart.
Nearby Landmarks
- Parque Montalvo (0.0km, Central)
- Museo de la Casa del Portal (0.1km Southwest)
- Iglesia La Merced (0.3km Northwest)
- Mercado Central (0.4km South)
- Terminal Terrestre Ambato (1.2km East)