Calceta

Calceta, the capital of Bolívar Canton in the Manabí Province, is colloquially known as the 'City of the Three Bridges' and is located in the heart of one of coastal Ecuador's most productive agricultural zones. The town is situated on the banks of the Carrizal River at an elevation of approximately 22 meters above sea level. Its history is marked by rapid growth during the early 20th century, leading to its designation as a canton seat on October 13, 1913. A prominent architectural feature of the city is the historic clock tower located in the central plaza, which serves as a symbol of local identity. Geographically, Calceta benefits from its location near the La Esperanza dam, which provides essential water resources for irrigation across the surrounding plains. The city also serves as a major educational hub for the region, primarily due to the presence of the Escuela Superior Politécnica Agropecuaria de Manabí (ESPAM). The local culture is deeply influenced by 'Montubio' traditions, celebrated through regional gastronomy and traditional festivals. Its economy is largely supported by the production and trade of cacao, coffee, citrus fruits, and maize, maintaining long-standing ties to both national and global markets.

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Mompiche

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Cojimíes

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More places

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Cerro Hojas-Jaboncillo

An extensive archaeological site of the Manteño culture located on a hill in Manabí.

Pesquera Polar Tuna

A leading company in Manta specializing in the processing and canning of tuna for export.

Port of Manta

A major seaport on the Pacific, important for tuna fishing and as a port of call for cruise ships.

Machalilla National Park

This park protects the unique tropical dry forest on Ecuador's coast, as well as stunning beaches and nearshore marine ecosystems.

Palo Santo Distillation

Facilities for the distillation of essential oil from the wood of the Palo Santo tree, valued for its aroma and spiritual purposes.

Agua Blanca

The remains of a major city of the Manteño culture on the Ecuadorian coast.

Puerto López Fishing Port

A small but lively fishing port that also serves as a starting point for whale watching tours.

Tagua Processing

Workshops that process the tagua nut, also known as 'vegetable ivory', into buttons, jewelry, and handicrafts.