MANTA

port city, Manab province, western Ecuador, on the Baha (bay) de Manta. Originally known as Jocay (Golden Doors), it was inhabited in 3000 BC and was a Manta Indian capital by AD 1200. Under Spanish rule it was renamed Manta and was reorganized by the conquistador Francisco Pancheco in 1535. In 1565 families from Portoviejo were moved to the town, which was again renamed San Pablo de Manta (officially Manta in 1965). A commercial centre known primarily for the export of Panama hats, it also ships coffee, cacao, oilseeds, and tagua nuts (vegetable ivory). Processed food, lumber, leather, and cotton textiles are important. Deep-sea commercial fishing is based there, and Manta has a tuna cannery. Tourism has grown since seaside resort and fishing facilities were established. Pop. (1983 est.) 103,670.