Las Penas is one neighborhood of the most emblematic of the city of Guayaquil. It was declared as Cultural Heritage in 1982, even though their houses are about 100 years of construction, have a colonial style and architecture similar to that of the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries. The neighborhood of Las Peñas is one of the few historical legacies that owns the city, its narrow streets, their homes along the river which have two fronts make it an appealing destination for sightseeing.
Formerly lived in this place characters in the history of the city and the country is now home to artists (painters), which is why the month of July became a showcase of art and culture of living artists place and cultural events taking the opportunity to show year after year.
Along with this neighborhood is the Cerro Santa Ana, which shows a new image due to urban regeneration, but keeps its traditional architecture.
The hill, formerly called Green Cerrito, is where the city originated, and in their short skirts produced its founding in 1547. Legend Lecumberri Nino, Spanish treasure hunter, it referred to Santa Ana when she was in danger of death. In gratitude he placed a cross and the words "Santa Ana" on top of the hill, the name which replaced since then the Green Cerrito.
The 465 stairs leading up Cerro Santa Ana are clearly marked, so you can track its ascent. And while the rise in some puny is strong, it should not take more than 20-25 minutes to reach the top. If you avoid the midday heat, you will find breathtaking views that will be worth all the effort.
All the way find a number of restaurants, cafes, bars, art galleries and shops mixed with residences. Many of the buildings are painted in bright contrasting colors, creating a beautiful effect.
At the top you will find the Chapel of Santa Ana, with a beautiful lighthouse. Both were built in 2002 on the foundations of a 17th century fortress. The Cerro de Santa Ana is where the city of Guayaquil was established for the first time in mid-1500.
From its summit can be seen in the north, the imposing intersection Babahoyo and rivers that form the Guayas Duale, on the south, the historic commercial district on the east, the Island and Durán Santay and west Cerro del Carmen and the rest of the city.
Map Las Peñas, Guayaquil Ecuador
