Description
Originally going by the name “Chimbapan,” which was kept for some years, it was renamed “Curiloma,” which in Quechua means “Loma de Oro,” referring to its gold wealth. The territory of the Canton Sevilla de Oro is located 63 kilometers from the City of Cuenca, following the Cuenca-Guarumales road. The cantonal center is at an altitude of 2,347 meters above sea level (Iglesia San Juan Bosco). With an average temperature of 18 degrees centigrade. Its territory is extensive and reaches 311 square kilometers (rural cadastre, 2007). The Canton Sevilla de Oro is strategically located in the middle basin of the Paute River has been considered the “ENERGY CANTON OF THE COUNTRY” for having in its territory the largest hydroelectric project. “Hidropaute” generates 60% of the electrical energy consumed in Ecuador. The Mazar, Sopladora, and Cardenillo projects are underway.
The eastern zone of our Azuay Province is rich in natural attractions and exceptional Andean landscapes, and is currently experiencing economic and tourist development.
History
On August 10, 1992, in the government of Dr. Rodrigo Borja Cevallos, the cantonization was achieved, thanks to the efforts of the entire Sevillian community. Currently in the 21st century, the canton of Sevilla de Oro is the place where important hydroelectric projects are carried out, such as the Paute – Mazar project, the Paute – Sopladora project and the Paute – Cardenillo project, including the Paute Dam.
Limits
On August 10, 1992, in Dr. Rodrigo Borja Cevallos’s government, the canonization was achieved, thanks to the efforts of the entire Sevillian community. In the 21st century, the canton of Sevilla de Oro is where critical hydroelectric projects will be carried out, such as the Paute – Mazar project, the Paute – Sopladora project the Paute – Cardenillo project, including the Paute Dam.
Attractions
Very close to the town is the Cruz Loma hill, an ideal place to see a spectacular panorama, made up of colorful houses and ornamental gardens. Near the site is the Laguna de Rayoloma, with a great popular legend, the tranquility of its waters contrasts with the happy song of the birds. For nature lovers there is the Padre Albino del Curto Ecotourism Route, in honor of the Italian Salesian priest Albino del Curto, mentor and forerunner of the development of Sevilla de Oro. This old bridle path connects with the neighboring canton Méndez, with the vision to unite the two cantons and boost their economies. Every November a tour with numerous walkers takes place here.
In addition, a few minutes from the cantonal center, the Palmas parish is located, the oldest in the canton. Here you can see the Church built in honor of San Vicente Ferrer. In this peaceful town of friendly people, you will find one of the most important enterprises in the tourist field, the Asoturi Mazar Association, where you can take a boat and kayak ride, in the Mazar reservoir, go on horseback and visit a colonial village. Another must-see is the Río Negro Sopladora National Park, with 2,176 hectares of Sevillian territory. Its location, altitudinal range, forests and dominant moors are in a good state of conservation, where there is great biodiversity that includes endemic species.