ZAMORA, APOSTOLIC VICARIATE of. – It is situated in Ecuador; the city of Z. was founded in 1550.
The Spaniards immediately began an extensive work of civilization, which the revolt of the Jivaros at the end of the 16th century almost completely destroyed. Given the rebellious nature of the tribe, the attempts at evangelization did not lead to the establishment of a genuine mission. On 6 Oct. 1888, the president of Ecuador and the National Congress asked Leo XIII to establish, in the eastern region of the country, four vicariates, which were created on 30 Jan. 1889; among these was also the apostolic vicariate of Z., entrusted to the Franciscans. The first missionaries went there in sufficient numbers in 1892, but in 1897 they had to abandon the mission, which was reopened in 1921.
The missionary’s work is directed not only toward preaching the Gospel but also toward the civilization of the fierce inhabitants. Over an area of approximately 15,000 sq. km. live approximately 16,000 inhabitants, of whom 6,716 are Catholics and the others pagans. Eleven missionaries, 8 brothers, and 16 sisters work there. There are 2 elementary schools, 2 vocational schools, almost-parishes 4; 3 primary stations and 5 secondary ones.