Coliseo Jefferson Pérez Quezada

When traveling through the southern region of Ecuador, it is impossible to pass by the main centers of public life. In the picturesque city of Cuenca, such a place is the Jefferson Pérez Quezada Coliseum—a modern multi-functional sports complex that brings together athletes from various disciplines under one roof.

Jefferson Pérez Quezada Coliseum. Иллюстрация. Источник: Kupi.com AI

This large-scale facility, opened back in 1985, is a true multi-sport town. It houses professional infrastructure for athletics, cycling, gymnastics, and even shooting. The complex is named after the legendary Olympic race-walking champion, which gives the site a special status in the eyes of local residents.

The main feature of the Coliseum is its accessibility. It is not just a closed training base, but an open space for sports and recreation. Visitors can see a velodrome with an impressive banking angle, professional roller racing tracks, and spacious halls for team games. For a tourist, it is a great chance to see the inner workings of Ecuadorian sports in its most vibrant form.

To inquire about upcoming events or training schedules, you can contact the complex administration directly. It is recommended to save the contact details before your visit, as the sports center may change its operating hours depending on scheduled competitions.

A surprising variety of activities awaits guests on the grounds of the complex. Sports enthusiasts can feel like professional athletes by training on the famous athletic track or trying their hand at the velodrome. If you prefer a more relaxed pastime, it is pleasant to simply stroll around, watching local gymnasts or shooters during their practice sessions.

Of particular interest are the complex's stands: the multi-sport hall can accommodate up to 2,000 spectators, creating incredible energy during matches and competitions. The venue often hosts exciting roller hockey matches, artistic roller skating, and cycling races, which can be watched completely free of charge.

For those seeking inspiration, the Coliseum provides a unique opportunity to witness the training process of future champions in real-time. The atmosphere of persistence and movement makes this place ideal for those who want to briefly swap colonial architecture for the dynamics of a modern sports center.

The sports center is located at 4X4J+93J, making it easily accessible for both locals and visitors. Thanks to its convenient location within the city limits, finding the complex using navigation systems is straightforward.

For those who prefer public transport, city buses stop within walking distance of the complex. If you are in the historic center, a taxi ride will take about 10–15 minutes, while walking enthusiasts can reach the arena while enjoying the views of the city streets.

The complex is also convenient for drivers, as parking is available near the arena. A pleasant bonus for all visitors is the free access to the grounds, allowing you to easily integrate a visit to the sports center into your city sightseeing route.

The history of this massive complex began in 1985. Its opening was timed to coincide with the V Bolivarian Games (Juegos Deportivos Bolivarianos)—a significant event that turned Cuenca into an important sports hub for the region. Since then, the arena has functioned as a key venue for international-level competitions.

A point of special pride is the name of the complex, given in honor of Jefferson Pérez Quezada. This outstanding athlete, a native of Cuenca, became the country's first-ever Olympic champion, winning gold in race walking. The athletic track inside the center bears his name, immortalizing his sporting achievement and inspiring new generations of athletes.

Over the decades, the facility has continuously evolved. Over time, the infrastructure was expanded with new specialized zones, including the Francisco Morales Velodrome. This has allowed the complex to remain relevant and serve as the main center of attraction for professional athletes and active lifestyle enthusiasts in Ecuador.

For a quick tour of the main sports facilities and the architecture of the complex, 1–2 hours is usually sufficient. This is enough time to walk through the grounds, see the famous velodrome and athletic track, and soak in the dynamic atmosphere of the place.

If you plan to do more than just look around and want to watch local athletes training or participate in any open sports activities, it is better to budget 2–3 hours. This will allow you to enjoy the spectacle without rushing and perhaps even try out the complex's infrastructure for yourself.

Currently, the exact operating hours for public visits may vary depending on official competitions and national team training camps. As a rule, the sports facilities are open throughout the daylight hours.

To ensure your trip is as productive as possible, we recommend checking the current schedule of events on the official city website or clarifying the information directly on-site before your visit.

After visiting the sports center, it is worth exploring the surrounding locations. Checking out the nearby areas will help you dive deeper into the daily life of the city and discover curious spots that often remain in the shadow of the main tourist routes.

This area features many specialized shops and displays dedicated to aquariums, which may be of interest to nature lovers. Below is a list of nearby sites you can visit: