Pelileo facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Pelileo
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City
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![]() View of Pelileo with the volcanoes Chimborazo and Carihuairazo in the background
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Country | ![]() |
Province | Tungurahua |
Canton | Pelileo Canton |
Area | |
• City | 3.43 km2 (1.32 sq mi) |
Population
(2022 census)
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• City | 11,403 |
• Density | 3,324/km2 (8,610/sq mi) |
Pelileo (its full name is San Pedro de Pelileo) is a city in Ecuador. It's located in the middle of the Andean mountains, a region known as La Sierra (the highlands). As of 2022, about 11,403 people live in the city.
Pelileo is the main town of Pelileo Canton. This canton has a population of about 63,897 people. The city is part of the Tungurahua Province. It is the third largest city in this province. Only Ambato and Baños are bigger. Many people travel through Pelileo when going from Ambato to Baños.
Pelileo is very well known for making and selling blue jeans.
Contents
History of Pelileo
Pelileo was started by Antonio Clavijo in the year 1570. It became a county on July 22, 1860.
The 1949 Earthquake
On August 5, 1949, a very strong earthquake hit Pelileo. The city was completely destroyed. Sadly, about 5,000 people in the county lost their lives. Today, the only thing left from the old city is a broken stone pillar. This pillar was once part of Pelileo's beautiful main church.
After the earthquake, a new city was built nearby. Because of this, you can visit two parts of Pelileo. There is the old area, called Pelileo Grande (Great Pelileo). And there is the new area, called Pelileo Nuevo (New Pelileo).
Pelileo's Economy and Culture
Pelileo is often called the "Blue City." This is because of its very active jean industry. Most of the jean factories are in the El Tambo area.
Local Communities and Crafts
Another interesting area in Pelileo is Salasaca. This place is home to a special Native American tribe. They originally came from Bolivia and settled in the Ecuadorian Andes a long time ago. The Huambalo area is also famous. It is known for its skilled artists who make beautiful furniture.
Local Products and Markets
Pelileo is also known for producing some local goods. The main market days in Pelileo are Saturday and Tuesday. On these days, you can find many local products.
Recent Events: Tungurahua Volcano
On August 16, 2006, the Tungurahua volcano erupted. This was a major event in a series of eruptions that started in 1999. The next morning, August 17, Pelileo was covered in rocks and ash. Many farms in the area lost their crops. Farm animals were also in danger.
See also
In Spanish: Pelileo para niños