Church · Ibarra, Imbabura
Cathedral of Ibarra
Cathedral rebuilt after the 1868 earthquake, facing Parque Pedro Moncayo. It has gold‑leaf altars and paintings of the apostles on the columns.
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 Cathedral of Ibarra
Ibarra’s cathedral sits on Parque Pedro Moncayo, the city’s main square, surrounded by palm trees and public buildings such as the municipal palace. It is the seat of the Diocese of Ibarra.
The temple was raised after the earthquake of August 16, 1868, which destroyed the city, and is part of the reconstruction that began with residents’ return in 1872. It shows Baroque influence, with altars covered in gold leaf and paintings of the twelve apostles on the columns.
The square in front is named for Pedro Moncayo (1807–1888), a journalist and diplomat born in the city, and is the center’s meeting point.
The visit is short and pairs well with a walk through the white‑fronted streets and a stop at the Basilica of La Merced, a few blocks away.
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 20 minutes.
Best time
In the morning, at the start of the center route, outside mass times.
How to get there
It is in Parque Pedro Moncayo, in central Ibarra, and is reached on foot.
Tip
After the cathedral, sit for a while in Parque Pedro Moncayo, the best place to watch the center’s activity.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Cathedral of Ibarra
Is Ibarra’s cathedral colonial?
No. The city was destroyed by the 1868 earthquake and the current cathedral was built afterward during the reconstruction.
What is there to see inside the cathedral?
Altars covered with gold leaf and paintings of the twelve apostles on the columns.
Who was Pedro Moncayo?
A journalist and diplomat born in Ibarra (1807–1888), who gives his name to the square in front of the cathedral.
