On August 16, 1868 was tragic for Ibarra and the province of Imbabura, this beautiful city was destroyed by an strong earthquake. It had 7,200 inhabitants of which 5,000 died.

The survivors went to Santa María de la Esperanza and, remained there during 4 years until the city was rebuilt.

The president of Ecuador designated to Gabriel García Moreno, to bring aid the devastated populations. The reconstruction of Ibarra was supported generously of several friendly governments, such as Peru, Chile, France, Great Britain added to the contribution of the president and the reconstructionist.