Case Studies 

Please note that these Hall of Shame nominations were written in a moment in time (most over a decade ago) and likely have since changed or even been transformed. If the above entry is now great, or still not so great, go ahead and comment below on how it has evolved or nominate it as a great place.

*Nominee 

ItchimbÕ_a Cultural Center

Quito

Ecuador

Contributed by 
Pablo Puente
Project for Public Spaces
 on 
October 13, 2005
May 1, 2024

Given the ample visibility that this park has of the city, it is considered a natural viewpoint. There is also an excellent Cultural Center on the top of the hill.

What makes it Great?

Why it doesn't work?

The ItchimbÕ_a, along with the hills of El Panecillo, Placer, and San Juan, delimited the space of the Spanish city of San Francisco of Quito, founded in 1534. This elevation is in the northeastern part of the urban plateau, at a height of 2910 ms.s.n.m. At the moment all their flanks are occupied by the new city.

There is a total surface area of 54 hectares, approximately 400 varieties of flowers, 40 species of birds, and one hectare of humedal. This natural wealth turns it into an interesting place, attractive for visitors and a space of encounter and recreation.

Access & Linkages

As a natural viewpoint, it is easy to get to from most places in the city. Its location in the Old City gives it a central location.

Comfort & Image

The natural landscape of the park provides much-needed green space in Quito, and this alone makes the park attractive and comfortable.

Uses & Activities

A lot of people visit the park, especially on weekends or when there are expositions. The cultural center and views make it one of the nicest recreational spaces in Quito. The new private management is introducing educational, recreational, ecological, and cultural initiatives to make the park more attractive.

Sociability

The whole city loves the park, the Cultural Center, and specially the great and excellent view of the capital of all the Ecuadorians. These factors make it an extremely popular destination for all city residents.

How Light?

How Quick?

How Cheap?

History & Background

This beautiful mountain was a sacred space of special reverence for our predecessors, as much because of its importance for adoration and contemplation of the gods, as its strategic location and absolutely irregular landscape. The European conquerors used it for hunting and military training, perhaps resisting the sacred function that, as much the Incas as their Quitu-Caras predecessors had given this extended hill. In this urban landmark, the Mayor of Quito has relocated the structure of the old Market of Santa Clara that opened in 1889, and looks similar to Les Halles of Paris.

Related Links & Sources

ItchimbÕ_a Cultural Center
ItchimbÕ_a Cultural Center
All images courtesy Pablo Puente
ItchimbÕ_a Cultural Center
ItchimbÕ_a Cultural Center
ItchimbÕ_a Cultural Center
ItchimbÕ_a Cultural Center
ItchimbÕ_a Cultural Center
ItchimbÕ_a Cultural Center

*Please note that these Hall of Shame nominations were written in a moment in time (most over a decade ago) and likely have since changed or even been transformed. If the above entry is now great, or still not so great, go ahead and comment below on how it has evolved or nominate it as a great place.

NOMINATE A PLACE

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