One and a quarter hours from the Ecuadorian Capital of Quito stands the beautiful and little known farmhouse of San Agustin de Callo. Built on the site of an important Inca Palace this working farm offers to day's discerning traveller an unrivalled glimpse into Ecuador's rich and colourful past.

The Hacienda has been written about by the famous chronicler Cieza de Leon and as one of only two major Inca sites in Ecuador. The hacienda is currently being investigated by Dr. David Brown of the University of Texas, the funding of which has been provided by the National Geographic Society.

Since the 15th century San Agustin de Callo has served as Inca fortress, Augustinian convent and temporary home for the French Geodesic Mission - whose scientific results helped to determine the shape of the planet. The Hacienda incorporates three distinct architectural styles, Inca, Colonial and Republican, the latter of which was added toward the turn of the 20th century.

In 1921 the Hacienda was purchased by General Leonidas Plaza Gutierrez, leader of the Liberal Revolution. Plaza went on to become President of Ecuador in 1901 and again in 1912, a position which was to be held by his son Galo Plaza in 1948.

The Hacienda remains in the family to this day and is currently owned by the General's granddaughter Mignon Plaza, whose father, the distinguished congressman and legendary amateur bullfighter José Maria Plaza, continued to play a pivotal role in politics.

* Category classification is under the criteria of Gentian Trails