- Latacunga became independent from Spain on November 11, 1820 and this is celebrated every year with a big parade.
- There are different dates marking the foundation of Latacunga, but the city was officially founded as a township in 1534.
- Latacunga is the capital of Cotopaxi province and is surrounded by nine volcanoes whose peaks can be seen very well when it is clear.
- The majority of people in Latacunga are mestizos or indigenous people of the Panzaleo culture.
- The most important celebration in Latacunga is the one of Mama Negra, which is celebrated every year on September 24th.
- Mama Negra is the patron of Latacunga and combines indigenous, African, and Hispanic culture in one person.
- The celebration of Mama Negra in September takes place to honor the Virgin of Mercy.
- The Mama Negra celebration also takes place on the first Sunday in November for Independence Day.
- There is an exhibition about the celebrations of Mama Negra at Casa de los Marqueses de Miraflores.
- Latacunga is also famous for chugchucaras, a dish of fried pork, empanadas, corn, and fried plantains.
Foto von: Routard05 (http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5099/5403700753_48fdd6c11d.jpg)
