Virgin of Volcano

The first Spaniards who lived in Quito, scared by the continuous eruptions of Pichincha volcano in 1575, built near the crater a stone virgin that represented the Virgin of the Mercedes, in order to protect the inhabitants of Quito of this destructive power. It was called the Virgin of the Volcano.

In 1960, due to a new eruption without any major consequences to the population, the inhabitants and neighbors reelect to the Virgin in gratitude for the granted safety from the volcano, in addition to storms, thunderstorms, tremors and other calamities. The experts speak of four eruptions since the arrival of the Spaniards. Eruptions in 1534, 1582, 1660 and 1868. If somebody wants to go to the summit of the Guagua Pichincha, you will find under the cross the image of this virgin, whom the settlers of Lloa make an annual peregrination.

This goes to show the adoration and respect to other mountains by similar cultures.