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Botanical garden · Ambato, Tungurahua
Atocha-La Liria Botanical Garden
Botanical garden of about 14 hectares on the banks of the Ambato River, in the Atocha neighborhood, with the Juan León Mera estate—author of the national anthem's lyrics—and the Martínez-Holguín house-museum.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Atocha-La Liria Botanical Garden
The Atocha–La Liria Botanical Garden covers about 14 hectares on the banks of the Ambato River in the Atocha neighborhood, north of the city center. It brings together two former estates of notable local families: the Atocha estate of Juan León Mera and the La Liria estate of the Martínez-Holguín family.
Juan León Mera’s estate, built in 1874 and declared a historical heritage site, houses furniture, paintings, manuscripts and objects of the writer, author of the Ecuadorian national anthem's lyrics. The neighborhood estates are among the few buildings in Ambato that survived the 1949 earthquake.
The Martínez-Holguín house-museum tells the story of the family of the writer Luis Alfredo Martínez, who gave his name to the La Liria estate. Between the two houses, trails cross gardens, an Andean woodland, highland fruit orchards and an avenue of plane trees.
The garden is a favorite spot for locals to stroll and watch birds and plants, and the entrance fee includes both house-museums.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About 2 hours, including both house-museums.
Best time
In the morning or early afternoon, with time for the trails. The garden is open Wednesday through Sunday; confirm opening times before you go.
How to get there
It is in the Atocha neighborhood, about 2 km from the city center. Go by taxi or by city bus from downtown.
Tip
Start at Juan León Mera’s estate and finish with the trails and orchards, which are more pleasant toward the end of the visit.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Atocha-La Liria Botanical Garden
Who was Juan León Mera?
Writer born in Ambato, author of the lyrics of Ecuador's national anthem and of the novel Cumandá. His estate, dating from 1874, is located within the botanical garden.
Does the entrance fee include the house-museums?
Yes, the visit includes Juan León Mera’s estate and the Martínez-Holguín house-museum.
Is the garden open every day?
It is generally open Wednesday through Sunday. Confirm opening times before you go.