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Monumento a la Independencia: Quito's Iconic Symbol of Freedom

A towering tribute to Ecuadorian independence, the Monumento a la Independencia stands as a symbol of freedom in Quito's historic Plaza Grande.

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The Monumento a la Independencia, located in Quito's Plaza Grande, commemorates Ecuador's struggle for independence. Inaugurated in 1906, the monument honors the heroes of the August 10, 1809 uprising, marking the beginning of the country's fight for freedom from Spanish colonial rule.

A brief summary to Monumento a la Independencia

  • St, García Moreno St, Chile, Quito, Centro Histórico, 170401, EC

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful experience in Plaza Grande.
  • Take a guided tour to learn more about the historical significance of the monument and the surrounding Plaza Grande.
  • Explore the surrounding historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage site, with its colonial architecture, museums, and cultural attractions.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    If you are starting from the Metropolitan Cathedral, walk east towards García Moreno Street. Continue for about 100 meters, and the Monumento a la Independencia will be on your right, prominently displayed in the center of the Plaza Grande.

  • Public Transport

    Take the Quito Metro to the San Francisco station, which is about 400 meters from the Plaza Grande. From the station, walk east along Calle Chile to reach the Plaza Grande. Alternatively, take a local bus or trolleybus to the Plaza de la Independencia stop. From there, walk west along García Moreno Street for about 300 meters. The Monumento a la Independencia will be on your left. A single bus or trolleybus fare is $0.35.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Quito. From most locations in the city center, a taxi ride to the Plaza Grande will be short and relatively inexpensive. Ensure the driver uses the taximeter or negotiate the fare in advance. A 5km ride in Quito costs about $9 USD. The base fare is $1.50, and each kilometer is priced at $1.50.

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Discover more about Monumento a la Independencia

The Monumento a la Independencia, also known as the Monument to the Heroes of August 10, 1809, stands as a powerful symbol of Ecuadorian national identity in the heart of Quito's historic center. Situated in the Plaza Grande, the city's main square, the monument commemorates the patriots who initiated the fight for independence from Spanish rule. It was inaugurated in 1906 by then-President Eloy Alfaro to mark the centennial of the Primer Grito de Independencia (First Cry of Independence). The monument's design, initially conceived by Italian priest Juan Bautista Minghetti, was later constructed by architect Lorenzo Durini and his sons. The monument features a neoclassical column adorned with Corinthian capitals. Atop the column stands a sculpture of the Roman goddess Libertas (Liberty), symbolizing the nation's triumph over Spanish colonial rule. The base of the monument features bronze sculptures and plaques that depict key figures and events in Ecuador's independence struggle. One notable sculpture is the 'Conjunto Ibérico,' which features a wounded lion, representing Spain, and other symbols. A bronze condor, a symbol of the Andes, is perched on the monument, breaking a chain with its beak, symbolizing Quito's liberation from Spain. The Plaza Grande, where the monument is located, is surrounded by significant buildings, including the Carondelet Palace (the Presidential Palace), the Metropolitan Cathedral, the Archbishop's Palace, and the Municipal Palace. The monument serves as a focal point for political gatherings and a reminder of the nation's history. Visitors can explore the surrounding area, which offers a vibrant mix of colonial architecture, cafes, shops, and cultural attractions. The San Francisco Metro station is located approximately 400 meters from the Plaza Grande, providing convenient access to the monument.

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