Entrada a la Ciudad

Location:
Where 18 Noviembre, Sucre and Nueva Loja streets converge
Loja, Ecuador

Museum

By Christopher Minster

Also known as Puerta de la Cuidad or Portal de la Cuidad, the Entrada a la Cuidad de Loja is without a doubt Loja’s most recognizable landmark. Built to look like a medieval gatehouse, complete with (fake) portcullis, the Entrada a la ciudad straddles Sucre Street as it leaves downtown to the north. The Entrada crosses a very small river (it seems like overkill, in fact: you could probably jump over the “river”) and there is a small park-like area on either side. There is even a very small parking lot for those who wish to see the building.

Inside the castle-like structure, you’ll find a free art museum, open daily, a snack bar, and a wandering maze of stairways, balconies and towers. There is a small information desk. The gatehouse is well-kept, attractive and more than a little fun: you’ll want to stop and see it, and you’ll only need about 20 minutes. Across the street to the south are two dazzling murals dedicated to Simón Bolívar and José Antonio de Sucre, heroes of Ecuadorian independence.

Getting There
The Entrada a la Ciudad is impossible to miss, crossing the river that divides the old town from the new. If you're in the old town, simply head north on Sucre, Universitaria or 18 de Noviembre until you see a huge medieval gatehouse.

Travel Tips: Don't miss the murals across the street.

Price Description: Entrance is free. Open daily.

Relative price: Free