Exploring Manta’s Rich Culture and History

Where in the World Are We?

We are in Manta, Ecuador, on the west coast of South America.

MANTA, ECUADOR
The city’s economic importance
As home to Ecuador’s second-largest seaport, Manta is one of the country’s most important economic cities.

So, far from rustic shores and a sleepy village, visitors to Manta can expect a modern urban hub, complete with vast beaches, high rises, city slickers, and lots and lots of fish. This is the city with a giant tuna statue welcoming visitors, so it is no surprise that seafood is high on everybody’s list of important things. What was once a small fishing village has today grown into a mighty industry, and ultra-fresh seafood – mostly tuna – takes center stage.

Thus, no trip to Manta is complete without sampling at least one local dish. Foodies will salivate at the chance to taste not only amazing tuna ceviche but also exquisitely prepared squid, octopus, and lobster, along with inspired South American-style tapas.

If tasting the city’s legacy isn’t enough for you, the Archaeological Museum of the Central Bank of Manta boasts an excellent collection of ceramics from the Manteño-Huancavilca culture, which flourished here between 800 and 1550 A.D.

Manta’s seafood, beaches, and boutiques might be enough for some people, but it is worth noting that picturesque Montechristi is only about 20 minutes away. Jump on a colorful (and colorfully authentic) Chivas bus for the short ride to the home of the Panama hat, which does not originate anywhere near Panama! The enchanting village has retained much of its faded Spanish elegance, with milliners as its star attraction.

Today’s Excursion – Traditions of Manta

We explored the rich history, culture, and people of Manta during this scenic, half-day sightseeing excursion.

Manta and Archaeological Museum

Depart the pier for a short drive around Manta en route to the Archaeological Museum of the Central Bank of Manta. The museum boasts a small but excellent collection of ceramics from the Manteño-Huancavilca culture, which flourished here between 800 and 1550 A.D. Other local art exhibitions are also on display.

Chorrillo and Cabuya Plant-Weaving

Next, re-board your coach and proceed to a cabuya plant-weaving factory in Chorrillo. Your visit is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience, as this traditional art is, unfortunately, rapidly dying out. In the past, this vibrant local industry prompted the production of approximately 4,000 cabuya plant bags per day in the Manta area. Today, this is the last remaining factory, producing 200 bags per week.

Montecristi Golf Club and Private Artisan Fair

Your tour continues with a drive along the picturesque seaside promenade and a visit to a Private Artisan Fair at the Montecristi Golf Club. Observe artisans weaving toquilla straw hats, or ‘Panama’ hats, and meet taqua nut carvers demonstrating their skills. The versatile tagua nut is used to produce a number of different eco-friendly products, from traditional handicrafts to jewellery and shirt buttons.

Tonight’s dinner was at The Atlantide Restaurant