Guayaquil History, Ecuador

Guayaquil, History – Early Phase

Guayaquil History has it that this Ecuadorian city is a relatively new one, founded in 1538 and called Muy Noble y Muy Ciudad de Santiago de Guayaquil. As almost all territories from South America, it was discovered by the Spanish, who populated it and helped to its development.

In the 17th century the population of the city increased and in another 100 years the number of the inhabitants grew five times. Guayaquil History is closely related to beautiful stories of the heroic pirates, who are stated to have attacked this amazing town. Popular figures such as the Englishman George d'Hout and the Frenchmen, Picard and Groniet had a particular interest in this rich place. Many people who were trying to defend their homes were killed and local women soon became the pirate’s concubines. In order to release the town’s inhabitants and not to let Guayaquil being destroyed, Quito was forced to pay a large sum of money to the pirates.

Guayaquil, History – Middle Times

In the 18th century another wave of pirates did everything that stood in their powers to determine the locals to pay them so as not to destroy their native city, but the yellow fever chased them away. On the 9th October 1820, Guayaquil proclaimed its independence from the Spanish authorities, due to rebellion initiated by a group of civilians. Thus, the town was turned into Provincia Libre de Guayaquil. This gave a great help to the Ecuadorian War of Independence. Two years later a conference was held in Guayaquil, when the independence of Spanish South America was planned. Unfortunately, in 1896, a large fire devastated a big part of this amazing Ecuadorian city, which was rebuilt by the local authorities, with the passage of time.

Guayaquil, History – Present Times

Nowadays, Guayaquil inhabitants preserve their glorious past through several restorations of the town, which help also the development of tourism. In the past few years, besides the traditional activity of trade, the city has known a period of evolution due to emphasis that has been put on tourism. The few but unique historic buildings, parks, squares and districts represent a solid reason for the national and international tourists to include this city among their destinations. With the new century, Guayaquil has also turned into a popular place where fairs and international events take place.

The past of this beautiful city, together with Cuenca History and Quito History show the bravery and perseverance of amazing people that knew how to fight for their freedom