# Ibarra

> city in Ecuador, capital of the Imbabura Province

**Wikidata**: [Q946384](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q946384)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ibarra,_Ecuador)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/ibarra

## Summary
Ibarra is a city in Ecuador and the capital of Imbabura Province, known for its rich cultural heritage and scenic landscapes. Founded in 1606, it is a significant urban center in northern Ecuador, with a population of over 157,000 as of 2022.

## Key Facts
- **Location**: Situated in the Ibarra Canton, Ecuador, at coordinates 0.362778° N, 78.13° W.
- **Founding Date**: Established on September 28, 1606.
- **Population**: 131,856 (2010 census), 157,941 (2022 census).
- **Area**: Covers 41.68 square kilometers.
- **Elevation**: 2,225 meters above sea level.
- **Time Zone**: UTC−05:00.
- **Official Name**: San Miguel de Ibarra.
- **Demonym**: Residents are called *ibarreño/a*.
- **Capital Of**: Imbabura Province and Ibarra Canton.
- **Patron Saints**: Archangel Michael and the Sacred Heart.
- **Postal Code**: EC100150.
- **Local Dialing Code**: 593 6.
- **Website**: [http://www.ibarra.gob.ec/](http://www.ibarra.gob.ec/).
- **Flag**: Features the flag of Ibarra Canton.
- **Coat of Arms**: [Image](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Special:FilePath/Escudo_de_Ibarra_(Ecuador).png).
- **Twin Cities**: Calama (Chile), Punta del Este (Uruguay), and Écija (Spain).

## FAQs
**What is the history of Ibarra?**
Ibarra was founded on September 28, 1606, and has since grown into a major cultural and administrative hub in northern Ecuador. Its colonial heritage is reflected in its architecture and traditions.

**What are the main landmarks in Ibarra?**
Key landmarks include the Obelisk of Ibarra, Basilica of Sorrowful Mother, Yahuarcocha Lagoon, Basilica of Our Lady of Mercy, El Cuartel Cultural Center, and the Church of Saint Augustine.

**What is the population of Ibarra?**
As of 2022, Ibarra has a population of 157,941, up from 131,856 in 2010, making it one of Ecuador’s mid-sized cities.

**What is the climate like in Ibarra?**
Due to its elevation of 2,225 meters, Ibarra enjoys a mild highland climate, with cool temperatures year-round.

**What cultural events are associated with Ibarra?**
The city celebrates its patron saints, Archangel Michael and the Sacred Heart, with local festivals and religious processions.

## Why It Matters
Ibarra serves as a vital administrative and cultural center in northern Ecuador, blending colonial history with modern urban development. Its strategic location near the Imbabura volcano and Yahuarcocha Lagoon makes it a key tourist destination, while its role as the provincial capital ensures its economic and political significance.

## Notable For
- **Historical Significance**: One of Ecuador’s oldest cities, founded in 1606.
- **Cultural Landmarks**: Home to notable sites like the Basilica of Sorrowful Mother and El Cuartel Cultural Center.
- **Scenic Beauty**: Surrounded by natural attractions, including the Imbabura volcano and Yahuarcocha Lagoon.
- **Twin City Relationships**: Maintains international ties with Calama (Chile), Punta del Este (Uruguay), and Écija (Spain).

## Body
### History
Ibarra was officially founded on September 28, 1606, under the name *San Miguel de Ibarra*. It has since evolved into a prominent city in Ecuador’s northern highlands, known for its colonial architecture and cultural heritage.

### Geography and Climate
Located at an elevation of 2,225 meters, Ibarra enjoys a mild highland climate. The city is situated near the Imbabura volcano and Yahuarcocha Lagoon, contributing to its scenic appeal.

### Demographics
Ibarra’s population has grown steadily, reaching 157,941 in 2022. The city’s residents, known as *ibarreños*, are primarily engaged in commerce, agriculture, and tourism.

### Governance and Administration
As the capital of Imbabura Province and Ibarra Canton, the city is governed by a mayor. It plays a central role in regional administration and public services.

### Landmarks and Tourism
Key attractions include:
- **Obelisk of Ibarra**: A prominent monument in the city center.
- **Basilica of Sorrowful Mother**: A historic church with significant religious importance.
- **Yahuarcocha Lagoon**: A scenic lake popular for recreation.
- **El Cuartel Cultural Center**: A hub for arts and cultural events.
- **Church of Saint Augustine**: A colonial-era church with architectural significance.

### Twin Cities
Ibarra maintains sister-city relationships with:
- **Calama, Chile**
- **Punta del Este, Uruguay**
- **Écija, Spain**

These partnerships foster cultural and economic exchanges.

### Infrastructure and Services
- **Postal Code**: EC100150
- **Local Dialing Code**: 593 6
- **Official Website**: [http://www.ibarra.gob.ec/](http://www.ibarra.gob.ec/)

### Cultural Identity
The city’s patron saints, Archangel Michael and the Sacred Heart, are celebrated annually. Ibarra’s cultural identity is deeply rooted in its colonial past and indigenous influences.

### International Recognition
Ibarra is referenced in several encyclopedic sources, including:
- *Brockhaus and Efron Encyclopedic Dictionary*
- *Meyers Konversations-Lexikon* (4th edition, 1885–1890)
- *Encyclopædia Britannica* (11th edition)

These references highlight its historical and cultural significance.

## References

1. Virtual International Authority File
2. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013
3. MusicBrainz
4. [Source](http://www.ecuadorencifras.gob.ec/documentos/web-inec/CENEC/Presentaciones_por_ciudades/Presentacion_Ibarra.pdf)
5. [Source](https://app.powerbi.com/view?r=eyJrIjoiNWUzMjQwOWMtZjFhOS00NjczLTk0YTItNjcwZmRmY2YxMjkyIiwidCI6ImYxNThhMmU4LWNhZWMtNDQwNi1iMGFiLWY1ZTI1OWJkYTExMiJ9)
6. GeoNames
7. BBC Things
8. [Source](https://site.inpc.gob.ec/pdfs/Publicaciones/Ciudades%20Patrimoniales/EXPEDIENTE%20INVENTARIO%20IBARRA.pdf)
9. National Library of Israel Names and Subjects Authority File