Riobamba to Balbanera the morning of December 19

This day there were a lot of things going on with regard to the train.  First we started out with the steam engine at Riobamba.

We went for a while through the countryside.

We arrived at the Colta community where we switched back to the usual engine.

The Pan American Highway runs through this community also. 

Many of the men stayed with the trains to watch the engines switch.  John got into trouble for wandering off and he also stepped in donkey droppings.

The rest of the group went to see Balvanera church.  It is called the oldest church in Ecuador.  It was originally constructed in 1524.  It was reconstructed in 1797 after being destroyed by an earthquake.

Add caption

This is the church's garden.

   

We were driven by bus to see this church although it was only across the Pan American Highway.  After looking at the church we revolted and refused to ride the bus back.  We walked.  After sitting on the train and bus for so long it was a refreshing change.  

Finally here are some pictures of the scenery from the train window seen during the morning.