Celica - Loja - Ecuador

The canton Celica is located south of the province of Loja, approximately 178 km, its name means "Celestial", for its turquoise sky and the diversity of landscapes, the name of Celica was given by the Spanish Sebastián de Benalcázar while conquering the Kingdom of Quito. Its friendly, cheerful and hardworking people are mainly dedicated to agriculture, livestock and trade, this beautiful canton is surrounded by beautiful landscapes and lush vegetation, has two types of climate, cold in the high and dry in plains.

Tourist Places in Celica

The Mother Church and Central Park

They constitute the very center of the town, the central park adorned with beautiful and colorful flower beds with vegetation typical of the area, it is the place where people come together to appreciate the beautiful surroundings where ancient constructions stand out. The main church with its baroque style built in the last century, this imposing building has three lateral towers, the interior worked with materials of this style, among which the wood carefully worked by the skillful hands of that time stands out, this place is the symbol of the catholic faith very rooted in the town, up to here all the believers arrive especially on Sundays to participate in the Sunday ceremony, this day and the holidays the church looks crowded with people who meet from other nearby places.

Monoliths of Quillusara

In the plain of Quillusara, belonging to the Parish Sabanilla, near the Quebrada del Muerto is the archaeological site: Monolitos de Quillusara, the same ones that date back many years and are the reflection of a culture very rich in traditions and identity that inhabited in these places in ancient times. There you will find a set of large, elongated, pointed stones distributed in such a way that it would pawn to pay homage to the sun and at the same time hide its lower parts to offer shade. It is believed that these integrated a temple in honor of fertility, family and fields. In large part of the stones are engraved, which generate curiosity of the most studious in the eagerness to decipher its meaning. This site is one of the most touristic interest of the canton Celica and the entire province, for its rich cultural history and the enigma that enclose, in addition to the tranquility of walking through the grass and between the rocks causes a unique sensation.

Cerro "El Pucará"

It is a fascinating natural viewpoint located east of the city to reach its peak you can see the cantons of Macará, Paltas, Pindal and Zapotillo, an ideal place to be in contact with nature while the climb to the Hill is made. In this place you can breathe a pure air and the fresh breeze of the natural environment is the best company during the tour, it is ideal for those who like to practice outdoor walks and feel the soft breeze caressing the face while exercising your whole body when climbing the mountain.

Santa Rosa River

On its banks you can enjoy numerous backwaters, an ideal place to camp with family or friends, here the residents and visitors meet especially on weekends and holidays.
It is ideal in summer time because the weather is quite nice which induces you to cool off in this gentle river, the noise of its light waters will envelop you in a soft murmur of peace and harmony that will undoubtedly help you to relax and rest.

Typical food of Celica

The cuisine of southern Ecuador is privileged, in the province of Loja, Celica will surprise you with:

Chanfaina With the burning wood and preparing the bronze paila prepares the meat and pork parts. For the preparation is used native ingredients such as oregano, parsley, garlic, onion, achiote and rice.

Dulce de toronche pasados ​​Traditional sweet of the place, contains ripe grapefruit, brown sugar, pepper, sugar and cloves

Popular Parties of Celica

1. Anniversary of cantonization: December 12.
2. Parish of Sabanilla: November 13.
3. Paroquialización de Pózul: June 24.
4. Lieutenant Maximiliano Rodríguez's parish: July 25.
5. Parish of Cruzpamba: November 5th.

Religious Holidays of Celica

1. San Pedro and San Pablo commercial religious festival: June 29 in Celica.
2. Religious festival in honor of the Virgen del Rosario: November 24.

Important Data for the Visitor

When visiting Cantón Celica do not forget to bring light clothing, comfortable shoes, sunscreen, hat, camera