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Viewpoint · Riobamba, Chimborazo
Loma de Quito
A hill in central Riobamba with the church of San Antonio and 21 de Abril Park, which commemorates the 1822 combat. On clear days the viewpoint shows Chimborazo and other volcanoes around the valley.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Loma de Quito
Loma de Quito is a small hill about 1 km from Riobamba’s cathedral, reached by stairways from the center’s streets. At the top are the church of San Antonio de Padua and 21 de Abril Park, one of the city’s oldest spaces, with history dating back to 1900.
The park commemorates the Combat of Tapi on April 21, 1822. That morning, royalist troops defended the city’s approaches, and the passage by Loma de Quito was left unprotected; the cavalry charge led by Juan Lavalle decided the fight and opened the way for the Battle of Pichincha in May of the same year. The date is Riobamba’s independence festival, celebrated every April.
In the park there is a commemorative pyramid, busts of Simón Bolívar and Juan Lavalle, and the viewpoint. On clear days the view reaches Chimborazo to the northwest and other regional volcanoes, as well as the center’s roofs and the city avenues.
Next to the park, the church of San Antonio de Padua, also called the Loma de Quito church, is one of the city’s most frequented temples. It opens at Mass times.
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
From half an hour to an hour, including the climb via the stairways, the park and the viewpoint.
Best time
Early morning, when the volcanoes often appear cloud-free; late afternoon to see the city lights.
How to get there
It is about 1 km from the cathedral. From the historic center you can walk up the stairways of Loma de Quito, or take a taxi to the park entrance.
Tip
Ascend slowly: the stairway is at about 2,750 meters of altitude. Bring a jacket, because the wind is strong on the hilltop.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Loma de Quito
What can you see from the Loma de Quito viewpoint?
The roofs of Riobamba’s center and, on clear days, Chimborazo and the mountains surrounding the city. Mornings tend to have clearer skies.
What happened on the Loma de Quito in 1822?
The Battle of Tapi, on April 21, 1822: the pass by the hill was left unprotected by royalist troops, and the independence cavalry won the fight that preceded the Battle of Pichincha.
How do you climb the Loma de Quito?
On foot, via the stairways that start from the historic center, a short climb; if you prefer to avoid steps you can drive to the park.