Cecilia Estrada Solá, the historian of Guayaquil who explored the past and the future
Cecilia Estrada Solá, a renowned historian from Guayaquil, is celebrated for her extensive work on the city's history and her contributions to historical documentation.
Cecilia Estrada Solá, born in Guayaquil on February 18, 1949, gained recognition for her dedication to the history of her hometown. She collaborated with Antonieta Palacios to edit her father's research, historian Julio Estrada Ycaza, thereby contributing to the historical series 'Guía histórica de Guayaquil,' which is regarded as an encyclopedia of the city by Rodolfo Pérez Pimentel. This project highlights her commitment to preserving and continuing her father's legacy of historical inquiry.
Throughout her career, Estrada Solá was deeply involved in historical research and aimed to update and expand the information contained in the historical guide, although her health challenges prevented her from completing this comprehensive work. Nevertheless, her passion for history remained undeterred, as evidenced by her publication in 2012 of 'Hospital Luis Vernaza, 448 years of service to the community' alongside Palacios and her 2020 work on 'Luis Estrada Ycaza: Pioneer of Ecuadorian Aviation,' showcasing a broader interest in the significant contributors to Ecuador's heritage.
Her legacy serves as an inspiration for future generations, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a connection to history both for individual identity and collective memory. Estrada Solá’s work not only honors her father’s contributions but also reflects her deep affection for Guayaquil and its rich historical narrative, reinforcing the vital role of historians in understanding and preserving the past for future insights.