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Early 16th century until the early 19th century.

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Ecuador experienced the Spanish conquest and colonization led by Francisco Pizarro.

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Ecuador became part of the Virreinato de Perú, with Quito being the administrative capital of the Real Audiencia de Quito, which governed the territory.

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There were violent conflicts

Forced labor systems such as mita and exploitation of indigenous communities.

Extraction of resources such as gold and silver mining.

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Its main source was the exploitation of natural resources, mainly gold and silver mining.

Encomienda.

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It provided Spanish settlers with the right to extract labor and tribute from indigenous communities in exchange for protection and religious instruction. This system often led to the exploitation and abuse of indigenous peoples.

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The Catholic religion played a central role in colonial Ecuador.

The construction of churches, cathedrals, and monasteries shaped daily life and social organization.

The Spanish imposed the Catholic religion on the Indians, which meant that the Indians had to change their customs and even learn the language.

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It is a mixture of Spanish and indigenous cultures, languages, and traditions. It is evident in Ecuadorian architecture, music, and religious practices.

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The struggle for independence gained momentum in the early 19th century, culminating in events such as the "El primer grito de la Independencia" in 1809 and the decisive Battle of Pichincha in 1822, which ultimately led to the separation of Ecuador from Spanish colonial rule and the establishment of an independent republic.