El Panecillo de Quito, de monte-artificio a artefacto urbano

This study reveals that the graphic representation of El Panecillo, a hill adjacent to Quito's historic center, in pre-standardized cartography not only reflected but actively shaped its perceived artificiality and collective imagination. By analyzing historical data and classifying manufactured objects related to Panecillo—such as temples, tunnels, and monuments—under the categories of 'artifice' and 'artifact,' the research demonstrates how artistic freedom in mapping introduced institutional or artist perspectives, configuring a shared image of the hill. The study concludes that Panecillo's apparent artificiality stems from its interpretation either as a divine creation or a product of human rationality, both reflecting societal desires. This insight explains why Panecillo became a synthetic expression of Quito and a regional urban landscape typology.

Bueno García, C. V. El Panecillo de Quito, de monte-artificio a artefacto urbano. https://doi.org/10.5821/dissertation-2117-408158