Ambato, city in central Ecuador, capital of Tungurahua Province, on the Ambato River. A leading commercial and transportation center and a mountain resort, the city is in a fertile region near the northern foot of the volcano Chimborazo. Ambato has frequently been damaged by earthquakes. Called the Garden City of Ecuador, Ambato is known for the production of peaches, apples, grapes, pears, oranges, and strawberries. Grain, sugarcane, and vegetables are also grown. Local industries produce textiles, flour, canned fruit, leather goods, rubber, wine, and furniture. The 19th-century poet Juan Montalvo was born here. Nearby, in 1921, General Antonio José de Sucre won an important battle during the war for independence against Spain. Population (1996 estimate) 155,690.Microsoft® Encarta® Online Encyclopedia 2001
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