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Quito is the capital of Ecuador, and it is a city that is spectacularly located in the Andes Mountains at an altitude of over 2,800 meters. This makes it one of the highest capitals in the world. Surrounded by green mountains and volcanoes, Quito offers a fascinating mix of colonial architecture, modern development and strong indigenous roots. Although Quito is a bustling capital with more than 2 million inhabitants, it has managed to maintain a special calm and closeness to nature, which is felt in both the climate, the atmosphere and the magnificent views almost wherever you are in the city.
Before the arrival of the Spaniards in the 16th century, the area around Quito was inhabited by various indigenous peoples, and the city was an important part of the Inca Empire. When the Spanish conquerors reached the area, the original city was destroyed, and the colonial city of Quito was officially founded in 1534. It quickly became a center for the Catholic Church and the Spanish administration in the region, developing into one of the most important cities in Spanish South America. Quito was particularly known for its religious art and architecture, and many of its churches and monasteries are now World Heritage Sites. The city’s strong colonial character and historical importance have made it an important center in Ecuador.
Today, Quito is a city that balances the old and the new. The historic center, which is one of the best preserved in South America, stands in contrast to the more modern areas such as La Mariscal and Cumbayá, where you can find cafes, art galleries and a vibrant nightlife. Quito is also known for its strong national identity, where both Spanish and indigenous elements live on in daily life, language, food culture and the many festivals that the city hosts. Here you can feel both Ecuador’s history and present, and the result is a unique atmosphere in the capital.
Quito offers a wide range of experiences for visitors. The historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is filled with impressive buildings such as La Compañía de Jesús, a Baroque church decorated with gold, and the San Francisco Monastery, which dates back to the city’s earliest colonial period. You can also visit El Panecillo, a hilltop with a large statue of the Virgin Mary, from which you can enjoy views of the entire city. Another popular excursion destination is Mitad del Mundo, or the Middle of the World, where you can symbolically stand with one foot on each side of the equator. In addition, Quito offers museums, markets, and access to mountain hikes and other beautiful natural areas just outside the city.
The Centro Histórico in Quito is one of the most important and well-preserved colonial city centers in all of South America, and was already included in the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1978. The city’s historic core is like a living museum filled with architectural masterpieces, churches, monasteries and mansions from the 16th to 18th centuries. The area covers more than 320 hectares and contains over 5,000 historical buildings. The architectural, cultural and political development of Ecuador can be traced here, and it is not least around Plaza de la Independencia, where the presidential palace, the archbishop’s palace and Quito’s city hall form the framework of the city’s and country’s historical center of power.
One of the most striking features of the Centro Histórico is the rich mix of Spanish, Moorish and indigenous architecture, which merges into a special style known as the Quito School. This artistic tradition has its roots in the colonial era and is particularly evident in the many churches and monasteries, where Baroque decorations are mixed with local motifs and techniques. Churches such as La Compañía de Jesús, known for its interior covered in gold leaf, and the Iglesia San Francisco, which combines Renaissance and Mudejar styles, are among the most beautiful examples. Each also houses works of art and statues created by local masters such as Bernardo de Legarda and Manuel Chili.
However, the Centro Histórico is not only a place for architectural admiration; it is also a busy and vibrant urban area of modern Ecuador. Daily life unfolds between historic facades with markets, cafés, restaurants, shops and several museums. The Museo de la Ciudad offers a fascinating journey through Quito’s history, while the Casa del Alabado showcases pre-Columbian art in a colonial building. It is also an area where you can find street vendors offering local snacks such as empanadas and jugo de caña, alongside tourists taking photos of colorful doors and balconies.
Another highlight is the many beautiful squares and open spaces that are an important part of the city’s infrastructure. In addition to Plaza de la Independencia, Plaza San Francisco and Plaza Santo Domingo are popular places where people meet to socialize, relax, or attend religious and cultural events. These squares are surrounded by magnificent buildings and are often the center of celebrations related to national holidays and local traditions. Overall, the Centro Histórico of Quito offers a unique opportunity to experience a city where the past is present in every street and building. It is a place where architecture, art, faith, and culture come together to form one of the most authentic and magnificent historical environments in all of South America.
The Catedral Metropolitana de Quito is one of the oldest and most important churches in South America. It was begun shortly after the Spanish conquest of the area in 1535 and was completed in the mid-16th century. The cathedral is centrally located on Plaza de la Independencia and has served as the headquarters of the Catholic Church in Ecuador since colonial times. Its long history is closely linked to the country’s political and religious development, and many important events from royal tributes to presidential funerals have taken place here.
Architecturally, the cathedral combines several styles, reflecting the different phases of its construction and later renovations. The facade appears simple and whitewashed in a neoclassical style, while the interior is characterized by Baroque and Mudejar elements. The church’s vaulted ceilings and carved altarpieces are richly decorated, and the high altar is adorned with gilded figures and ornamentation. Along the nave of the church, you will also find a series of chapels dedicated to various saints, and each chapel has its own works of art and sculptures. The cathedral’s inner courtyard and associated cloisters add an atmospheric complement to the magnificent main building.
A special feature of the cathedral is its crypt, where several prominent Ecuadorian figures have been buried over the years, including President Gabriel García Moreno, who was assassinated in front of the church in 1875. The cathedral’s museum also houses a fine collection of religious art from the colonial era, and visitors have the opportunity to take a trip up to the roof of the church, from which you get a unique view of the historic city center.
The Iglesia de la Compañía de Jesús, also known as La Compañía, is one of Quito’s most impressive Baroque churches and a masterpiece of colonial art and architecture. Construction began in 1605 under the direction of Italian Jesuit priest Nicolás Durán Mastrilli and was completed in 1765. The church was built during a time when Quito was a center of religious and cultural development in South America, and La Compañía reflects this importance through its magnificent architecture and decoration.
The church is known for its lavish interior design, which combines elements of Italian Baroque and Spanish Churrigueresque styles. The main altar, which reaches up to the ceiling, is an impressive sight with its detailed wood carvings and gilded surfaces. The ceiling is adorned with paintings of the four evangelists, while the walls are decorated with a wealth of religious scenes and figures, all by masters of the Quito school. A particularly notable work is the painting Hell/El Infierno, which depicts a dramatic version of the Last Judgment and has become a symbol of the church’s artistic significance.
In addition to its artistic value, La Compañía also has a history of several significant events over the years. In 1996, the church was hit by a fire that caused significant damage. After extensive restoration work, the church was reopened, and visitors can still see traces of the fire. For example, a painted face of an angel was added as a reminder of the incident.
Mitad del Mundo, which means the middle of the world, is one of Quito’s most iconic attractions, marking the point where the equator cuts through Ecuador. The monument was erected in the late 1970s and stands as a national symbol of the country’s geographical uniqueness. The 30-meter-high monument at the site is crowned with a globe, and the site is surrounded by a small colonial-style district with museums, shops, and cafes. Although GPS measurements have since shown that the exact equator line is a few hundred meters away, this does not change the appeal of the experience, as for many, the visit is about the unique situation of standing with one foot in each hemisphere.
Inside the monument, you will find the Museo Etnográfico Mitad del Mundo, which offers exhibitions about Ecuador’s many indigenous cultures, their way of life, clothing, and religious practices. The museum also conveys scientific aspects of the equator, such as how gravity and the Coriolis effect affect the movement of water. This is done through interactive experiments and explanations. In addition, you can visit the nearby Museo de Sitio Intiñan, which is closer to the actual equator and offers hands-on experiences, where you can balance eggs on nails and try out physics experiments that only work at zero latitude.
Mitad del Mundo is not only a place for learning and playing with geography, but also a lovely recreational center. The surrounding park is a great place for a leisurely stroll, and the area offers restaurants serving both Ecuadorian and international cuisine. It also hosts concerts, dance shows, and cultural festivals on weekends, making it a vibrant experience year-round. Whether you’re interested in geography, culture, or just want a fun and educational excursion from Quito, Mitad del Mundo is a great choice, located a short distance north of the old part of Quito.
The Basilica del Voto Nacional is the largest neo-Gothic church in South America and one of Quito’s most impressive buildings. Construction of the large church began in 1892 and was completed after almost a century in 1988. The church was built as a figurative promise to consecrate Ecuador to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. The basilica was designed by architect Emilio Tarlier, who was inspired by the cathedral in Bourges, France. The construction was financed through both public funds and private donations, where people could, among other things, contribute stones and have their names engraved as part of the building’s foundation.
The church is known for its Gothic arches, colorful stained glass windows, and unique details such as the indigenous animal figures depicted instead of the traditional European saints. The building is also known for its colossal dimensions. It is 140 meters long and 35 meters wide, and its towers reach a height of 115 meters, making them the tallest buildings in Quito. Inside the church, there are 24 chapels representing the provinces of Ecuador, and a crypt that serves as a national pantheon for former presidents.
You can enjoy the many details and magnificent interior of this architectural masterpiece. There is much to notice, with one of the most unique features of the basilica being its use of local animal species such as iguanas, armadillos and turtles as gargoyles. It is an interesting reflection of Ecuador’s rich biodiversity and something that gives the church a distinctive character that sets it apart from other Gothic cathedrals around the world. Visitors can also take a trip up the church’s towers, from where there are breathtaking views of the city and the surrounding mountains.
The Iglesia y Convento de San Francisco or Church and Convent of San Francisco is a complex in Quito that stands tall as the oldest and most important religious site in Ecuador. The monastery was founded in 1535 by the Franciscan Order and was built over a period of more than 150 years. The result was the largest architectural church and monastery complex in historic city centers in South America. In addition to its size, the complex is known for its mix of different architectural styles such as Renaissance, Baroque and Mudejar.
The monastery buildings can be seen along the Plaza de San Francisco, one of Quito’s old squares. This is also where the entrance to the monastery church is located, which offers an impressive collection of works of art, religious objects and, in general, a sumptuous presentation of Baroque art. The magnificent high altar, carved in wood and covered in gold leaf, is a central feature and one of the most impressive examples of the Quito School Baroque style from the 17th century. Other altars and the church walls are richly decorated with works of art by some of the most renowned Ecuadorian artists of the time, including Bernardo de Legarda and Manuel Chili, also known as Caspicara. The church also contains statues of saints, reliquaries, and an ornate choir area with carved chairs.
The attached monastery houses a library with over 30,000 books and manuscripts, making it one of the most important centers of knowledge in colonial Quito. The San Francisco complex also has a large courtyard surrounded by colonnades and beautifully decorated walls, providing a peaceful environment for reflection and prayer. The Iglesia y Convento de San Francisco has played a central role in the religious and cultural life of Ecuador for centuries, witnessing many historical events. The monastery has also been a gathering place for both believers and scholars. Today, it still functions as an active monastery, and it is also a popular tourist destination, where visitors can enjoy the beautiful architecture and learn about Ecuador’s religious history.
El Panecillo is the name of a natural hill in the heart of Quito, rising 200 meters above the average elevation of the city. At its peak stands the statue of the Virgin of Quito/Virgen de Quito, a 41-meter-high aluminum sculpture of the Virgin Mary, erected in 1975. The statue is a modern interpretation of an 18th-century wooden figure created by Bernardo de Legarda in 1734, and was inaugurated as the tallest religious monument in Ecuador.
El Panecillo offers one of the best views of Quito and its surrounding mountains, as the hilltop rises prominently in the city center in a quite defined area. From the top, you can see, for example, the historic district, the modern districts and the majestic Andes in the background. The area around the statue has been developed with paths, benches and information boards, making it a popular place for both locals and tourists who want to take a walk in nature and to the Virgin, one of Quito’s landmarks.
The Museo de la Ciudad is a city museum located in the heart of Quito’s historic center. It is housed in the former San Juan de Dios Hospital, founded in 1565. The building itself is part of Quito’s colonial heritage and was carefully restored to house the museum, which opened in 1998. Its historic setting creates an atmosphere ideal for a journey through the city’s development from the life of the indigenous peoples before the Spanish conquest to the modern metropolis of today.
The museum’s permanent exhibitions take visitors through a chronological narrative of Quito’s social, cultural and political history. You move through scenes recreated with wax figures, original objects and interactive installations that bring to life everyday life and important events from different historical periods. There is a strong emphasis on the voices of local people and the social changes the city has undergone.
The Museo Nacional del Ecuador, often abbreviated as MuNa, is Ecuador’s largest and most comprehensive museum. It is a national museum that presents more than 5,000 years of the country’s history. It was originally founded in 1969 and reopened in a new and modern version in 2018 in the Casa de la Cultura Ecuatoriana. The museum aims to tell the story of Ecuador’s identity through art, archaeology, ethnography and historical documents.
The collections are divided into different sections, each representing important eras and aspects of Ecuador’s cultural heritage. Among the exhibits are pre-Columbian ceramic sculptures, gold and silver jewelry from the Inca era, religious colonial art and modern Ecuadorian painting. The museum’s exhibitions also highlight the country’s ethnic and cultural diversity, especially the contribution of indigenous peoples to Ecuador’s history and society.
The Museo Templo de la Patria is not only a museum, but also a national monument that honors Ecuador’s struggle for independence. It was inaugurated in 1982 on the site of the Battle of Pichincha in 1822. It was a battle that resulted in a decisive victory over the Spanish colonial power. Located on a mountaintop with a magnificent view of Quito, the museum serves as both a memorial and a place of patriotic and historical reflection.
The exhibitions at the Templo de la Patria focus on the struggle for independence, and in particular on the Battle of Pichincha and its heroes, including General Antonio José de Sucre. Through paintings, historical documents, weapons, uniforms and sculptures, visitors gain a detailed understanding of the political, social and military events that led to Ecuador’s independence from Spain. A central element is the large hall where the names of fallen freedom fighters are engraved on marble walls.
The Iglesia de Santo Domingo in Quito is one of the city’s oldest and most important churches. It was begun in 1580 by the Dominican Order. The church was built over several decades and today stands as an impressive example of colonial religious architecture. It is located in the southern part of Quito’s historic center at Plaza de Santo Domingo, and together with the adjacent monastery and museum, it forms an important religious and cultural complex. For centuries, the church has played a central role in the spiritual life of the city, serving as the home of the Dominican Order and their mission in Ecuador.
The building’s architecture reflects a mix of Renaissance, Baroque, and Mudéjar style elements. The facade was built of volcanic stone and is relatively simple in its design, but it leads into a richly decorated interior that reveals the true splendor of the church. The main altar is lavishly decorated in Baroque style with intricate wood carvings and gilded details, and is flanked by side altars dedicated to various saints. The ceiling is a remarkable example of Mudéjar architecture, where Islamic-inspired woodwork forms complex geometric patterns – a testament to the Iberian cultural melting pot that the Spanish brought with them to the New World.
The church also houses a rich collection of religious art from the Quito School, including works by renowned artists such as Bernardo de Legarda and Manuel Chili. Sculptures and paintings throughout the church reflect the distinctive blend of European techniques and indigenous traditions. A particular highlight is the statue of the Virgen del Rosario, which is carried through the streets during religious processions and is of great importance to the city’s Catholic population. These works of art make the Iglesia de Santo Domingo not only a religious site, but also a gallery of ecclesiastical art during the colonial period.
Next to the church is the former convent, which now houses a museum where visitors can delve into the history of the order and explore religious artifacts, old books, cloister corridors and beautiful courtyards. The convent reflects the intellectual and missionary role of the Dominican Order in Quito, and it offers a unique insight into the work of the Catholic Church in the colonial Andean region. Together, the church and convent form a place where art, faith and history merge into a beautiful whole.
Plaza Santo Domingo, in front of the church, is one of Quito’s main historical squares in the southern part of the old center. The square was created during the colonial era and has served as a gathering point for religious ceremonies, public events and commerce for centuries. In the middle of the square stands an impressive statue of Marshal Antonio José de Sucre, a key figure in Ecuador’s fight for independence. The square is surrounded by beautiful colonial buildings with arched arcades, and its open atmosphere makes it a popular meeting place.
Guayaquil is Ecuador’s largest city and also its main port. It is beautifully situated on the banks of the Rio Guayas River, close to the Pacific coast. The city serves as the country’s economic engine and is the center of commerce, industry, and transportation. Compared to the highland city of Quito, Guayaquil has a more tropical climate and a more modern look and lively atmosphere befitting a city by the water. You can really feel the pace of Ecuador’s development from the city’s busy port and vibrant center to the many new construction projects and business areas that are springing up here.
Founded by the Spanish in the mid-16th century, Guayaquil quickly became an important port during the colonial era due to both its access to the sea and to the interior of the country via the rivers. The city was attacked several times by pirates, but despite this, it grew steadily and became a central role in the export of wood, cocoa, and later bananas, which became some of Ecuador’s most important exports. In 1820, Guayaquil played an important role in the fight for independence and declared itself free from Spanish rule.
Quito, Ecuador
The Basilica del Voto Nacional is the largest neo-Gothic church in South America and one of Quito’s most impressive buildings. Construction of the large church began in 1892 and was completed after almost a century in 1988. The church was built as a figurative promise to consecrate Ecuador to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. The basilica was designed by architect Emilio Tarlier, who was inspired by the cathedral in Bourges, France. The construction was financed through both public funds and private donations, where people could, among other things, contribute stones and have their names engraved as part of the building’s foundation.
The church is known for its Gothic arches, colorful stained glass windows, and unique details such as the indigenous animal figures depicted instead of the traditional European saints. The building is also known for its colossal dimensions. It is 140 meters long and 35 meters wide, and its towers reach a height of 115 meters, making them the tallest buildings in Quito. Inside the church, there are 24 chapels representing the provinces of Ecuador, and a crypt that serves as a national pantheon for former presidents.
You can enjoy the many details and magnificent interior of this architectural masterpiece. There is much to notice, with one of the most unique features of the basilica being its use of local animal species such as iguanas, armadillos and turtles as gargoyles. It is an interesting reflection of Ecuador’s rich biodiversity and something that gives the church a distinctive character that sets it apart from other Gothic cathedrals around the world. Visitors can also take a trip up the church’s towers, from where there are breathtaking views of the city and the surrounding mountains.
The Iglesia y Convento de San Francisco or Church and Convent of San Francisco is a complex in Quito that stands tall as the oldest and most important religious site in Ecuador. The monastery was founded in 1535 by the Franciscan Order and was built over a period of more than 150 years. The result was the largest architectural church and monastery complex in historic city centers in South America. In addition to its size, the complex is known for its mix of different architectural styles such as Renaissance, Baroque and Mudejar.
The monastery buildings can be seen along the Plaza de San Francisco, one of Quito’s old squares. This is also where the entrance to the monastery church is located, which offers an impressive collection of works of art, religious objects and, in general, a sumptuous presentation of Baroque art. The magnificent high altar, carved in wood and covered in gold leaf, is a central feature and one of the most impressive examples of the Quito School Baroque style from the 17th century. Other altars and the church walls are richly decorated with works of art by some of the most renowned Ecuadorian artists of the time, including Bernardo de Legarda and Manuel Chili, also known as Caspicara. The church also contains statues of saints, reliquaries, and an ornate choir area with carved chairs.
The attached monastery houses a library with over 30,000 books and manuscripts, making it one of the most important centers of knowledge in colonial Quito. The San Francisco complex also has a large courtyard surrounded by colonnades and beautifully decorated walls, providing a peaceful environment for reflection and prayer. The Iglesia y Convento de San Francisco has played a central role in the religious and cultural life of Ecuador for centuries, witnessing many historical events. The monastery has also been a gathering place for both believers and scholars. Today, it still functions as an active monastery, and it is also a popular tourist destination, where visitors can enjoy the beautiful architecture and learn about Ecuador’s religious history.
El Panecillo is the name of a natural hill in the heart of Quito, rising 200 meters above the average elevation of the city. At its peak stands the statue of the Virgin of Quito/Virgen de Quito, a 41-meter-high aluminum sculpture of the Virgin Mary, erected in 1975. The statue is a modern interpretation of an 18th-century wooden figure created by Bernardo de Legarda in 1734, and was inaugurated as the tallest religious monument in Ecuador.
El Panecillo offers one of the best views of Quito and its surrounding mountains, as the hilltop rises prominently in the city center in a quite defined area. From the top, you can see, for example, the historic district, the modern districts and the majestic Andes in the background. The area around the statue has been developed with paths, benches and information boards, making it a popular place for both locals and tourists who want to take a walk in nature and to the Virgin, one of Quito’s landmarks.
The Museo de la Ciudad is a city museum located in the heart of Quito’s historic center. It is housed in the former San Juan de Dios Hospital, founded in 1565. The building itself is part of Quito’s colonial heritage and was carefully restored to house the museum, which opened in 1998. Its historic setting creates an atmosphere ideal for a journey through the city’s development from the life of the indigenous peoples before the Spanish conquest to the modern metropolis of today.
The museum’s permanent exhibitions take visitors through a chronological narrative of Quito’s social, cultural and political history. You move through scenes recreated with wax figures, original objects and interactive installations that bring to life everyday life and important events from different historical periods. There is a strong emphasis on the voices of local people and the social changes the city has undergone.
The Museo Nacional del Ecuador, often abbreviated as MuNa, is Ecuador’s largest and most comprehensive museum. It is a national museum that presents more than 5,000 years of the country’s history. It was originally founded in 1969 and reopened in a new and modern version in 2018 in the Casa de la Cultura Ecuatoriana. The museum aims to tell the story of Ecuador’s identity through art, archaeology, ethnography and historical documents.
The collections are divided into different sections, each representing important eras and aspects of Ecuador’s cultural heritage. Among the exhibits are pre-Columbian ceramic sculptures, gold and silver jewelry from the Inca era, religious colonial art and modern Ecuadorian painting. The museum’s exhibitions also highlight the country’s ethnic and cultural diversity, especially the contribution of indigenous peoples to Ecuador’s history and society.
The Museo Templo de la Patria is not only a museum, but also a national monument that honors Ecuador’s struggle for independence. It was inaugurated in 1982 on the site of the Battle of Pichincha in 1822. It was a battle that resulted in a decisive victory over the Spanish colonial power. Located on a mountaintop with a magnificent view of Quito, the museum serves as both a memorial and a place of patriotic and historical reflection.
The exhibitions at the Templo de la Patria focus on the struggle for independence, and in particular on the Battle of Pichincha and its heroes, including General Antonio José de Sucre. Through paintings, historical documents, weapons, uniforms and sculptures, visitors gain a detailed understanding of the political, social and military events that led to Ecuador’s independence from Spain. A central element is the large hall where the names of fallen freedom fighters are engraved on marble walls.
The Iglesia de Santo Domingo in Quito is one of the city’s oldest and most important churches. It was begun in 1580 by the Dominican Order. The church was built over several decades and today stands as an impressive example of colonial religious architecture. It is located in the southern part of Quito’s historic center at Plaza de Santo Domingo, and together with the adjacent monastery and museum, it forms an important religious and cultural complex. For centuries, the church has played a central role in the spiritual life of the city, serving as the home of the Dominican Order and their mission in Ecuador.
The building’s architecture reflects a mix of Renaissance, Baroque, and Mudéjar style elements. The facade was built of volcanic stone and is relatively simple in its design, but it leads into a richly decorated interior that reveals the true splendor of the church. The main altar is lavishly decorated in Baroque style with intricate wood carvings and gilded details, and is flanked by side altars dedicated to various saints. The ceiling is a remarkable example of Mudéjar architecture, where Islamic-inspired woodwork forms complex geometric patterns – a testament to the Iberian cultural melting pot that the Spanish brought with them to the New World.
The church also houses a rich collection of religious art from the Quito School, including works by renowned artists such as Bernardo de Legarda and Manuel Chili. Sculptures and paintings throughout the church reflect the distinctive blend of European techniques and indigenous traditions. A particular highlight is the statue of the Virgen del Rosario, which is carried through the streets during religious processions and is of great importance to the city’s Catholic population. These works of art make the Iglesia de Santo Domingo not only a religious site, but also a gallery of ecclesiastical art during the colonial period.
Next to the church is the former convent, which now houses a museum where visitors can delve into the history of the order and explore religious artifacts, old books, cloister corridors and beautiful courtyards. The convent reflects the intellectual and missionary role of the Dominican Order in Quito, and it offers a unique insight into the work of the Catholic Church in the colonial Andean region. Together, the church and convent form a place where art, faith and history merge into a beautiful whole.
Plaza Santo Domingo, in front of the church, is one of Quito’s main historical squares in the southern part of the old center. The square was created during the colonial era and has served as a gathering point for religious ceremonies, public events and commerce for centuries. In the middle of the square stands an impressive statue of Marshal Antonio José de Sucre, a key figure in Ecuador’s fight for independence. The square is surrounded by beautiful colonial buildings with arched arcades, and its open atmosphere makes it a popular meeting place.
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