Chiese e monumenti a Chimborazo

Historic Churches & Monuments

Explore the colonial heritage and civic history of the Chimborazo province through its most significant structures. This collection features the 1534 Balbanera church, recognized as the first Catholic temple built in Ecuador, alongside the historic San Felipe Neri chapel, site of the 1897 Sacrilege of Riobamba. The list also includes monuments dedicated to indigenous leaders like Fernando Daquilema and central parish churches that define the architectural landscape of Alausí, Chambo, and Chunchi.

Primera Iglesia Católica del Ecuador (1534) - María Natividad de Balbanera

Established in August 1534, this is the first Catholic church built in Ecuador. Constructed of stone near the shores of Colta Lake, it retains its original colonial facade and historical significance as the starting point of Spanish evangelization in the region.

Iglesia Católica La Concepción - Santuario del Señor del Buen Suceso (1650)

Dating back to 1650, this sanctuary is dedicated to the Lord of Good Success. It serves as a major religious landmark in Riobamba, housing significant colonial-era religious art and serving as a center for local devotional traditions.

Templo Católico Expiatorio - Capilla del Sacrilegio de la Unidad Educativa San Felipe Neri

A historic chapel within the San Felipe Neri complex, famous for the 1897 'Sacrilege of Riobamba' during the Liberal Revolution. The site is a point of pilgrimage and historical reflection regarding the conflict between church and state.

Iglesia de Alausí

The central religious landmark of Alausí, this church features traditional Andean colonial architecture and stands as a focal point for the town's historical center near the Nariz del Diablo railway.

Iglesia Católica Nuestra Señora de El Rosario

A Catholic parish church serving the northern districts of Riobamba, known for its community significance and traditional religious architecture.

Iglesia Católica de San Francisco

A classic colonial-style church in Riobamba featuring a stone facade and a collection of religious sculptures. It is one of the city's primary historical places of worship.

Paccha

A monumental water feature and sculpture that represents the region's hydraulic history and indigenous heritage, located near the entrance to the Guano district.

Monumento a Fernando Daquilema

A monument honoring the Puruhá leader who spearheaded the 1871 indigenous uprising against oppressive taxation. It serves as a significant site for local history and indigenous identity.

Iglesia Católica Matriz San Juan Evangelista | Chambo

The primary Catholic temple and main parish church for the Chambo canton, serving as a central architectural and spiritual hub for the local community.

Iglesia Católica Matriz Santo Domingo de Guzmán | Chunchi

The principal church of the Chunchi canton, dedicated to Saint Dominic de Guzmán. It is a central landmark for the town's religious and civic gatherings.