Independence Of Cuenca
The 3rd of November is celebrated as the Independence of Cuenca in Ecuador every year. This holiday commemorates the declaration of independence by the city of Cuenca on November 3rd, 1820. Cuenca is a city located in the southern Andes mountains at an elevation of over 8,300 feet.
It is a city that covers an area of 27.25 square miles and is home to approximately 661,000 citizens. It is also the location of the holiday’s major celebrations and comes alive on this day with festivals, parades, and food carts. Since the residents of the city have the day off, these festivities are something many of them can enjoy.
The History Of The Independence Of Cuenca
There are many different Independence Days across Ecuador, and these celebrations provide a good timeline of how independence spread across the country during the 19th century. The first city in Latin America to declare independence was Quito in 1809, which is now the capital of Ecuador. That date is celebrated as Independence Day for the entire country.
Guayaquil was the next city to declare its independence on October 9th, 1820, and this event is now celebrated as Guayaquil Independence Day. The next city to declare independence was Cuenca on November 3rd, 1820. This is now celebrated as the Independence of Cuenca, a holiday observed in that city.
Observing The Independence Of Cuenca
This holiday is observed as a public holiday in the city, and many businesses, schools, and local government offices are closed for the day. However, it is not just a holiday celebrated in the city; it is also celebrated nationally, so people can find dances, concerts, parades, and other events all across the country.
As is the case with most Ecuadorian holidays, this day is also celebrated with food. This includes Cuy Asado (roasted guinea pig), Churrasco Ecuatoriano (grilled meat), Ceviche de Camarón (raw shrimp cocktail), and Bolones de Verde (stuffed green plantain dumplings).