In 1797, the city of Riobamba, located in the Andean region of Ecuador, experienced a devastating earthquake that would have lasting effects on its landscape and population. The earthquake struck in the early hours of February 4th, generating powerful tremors that shook the city and surrounding areas. Buildings crumbled, and the infrastructure was severely damaged, creating chaos and panic among the residents. Reports from that time describe ground shaking so intense that it was felt across a wide area, with significant aftershocks adding to the devastation. The local populace was caught off guard, and many civilians were trapped under the rubble of their homes and public buildings.In the immediate aftermath of the quake, rescue efforts were hampered by damaged infrastructure and ongoing aftershocks. The disaster led to widespread dislocation, forcing survivors to seek shelter in nearby towns and villages. The impact on Riobamba was catastrophic, with estimates suggesting up to 40,000 people lost their lives, representing a significant percentage of the city's population. The event also triggered landslides and tsunamis in coastal areas, further exacerbating the crisis. As news of the disaster began to spread, it prompted a humanitarian response from surrounding regions and even distant countries, which provided aid to the survivors and those affected by the disaster.Following the earthquake, the city faced a long and arduous recovery process. Reconstruction efforts took years as communities began to rebuild their lives from the ruins. The quake also led to changes in policies regarding building standards and disaster preparedness in the region. As the years passed, the nostalgia for pre-earthquake Riobamba persisted, becoming an integral part of the city’s history and culture, serving as a reminder of resilience in the face of natural disaster.