QUITO

Quito is the capital of Ecuador and the main city in the Andes of Ecuador. Quito is two cities in one in the center their is the Old Town a perfectly preserved Spanish Colonial City with cobblestone streets, large plazas and gilded churches. To the north is the New City a modern city and financial center complete with sky rises and shopping malls. In 1978 UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) named Colonial Quito one of the first world heritage site, becoming a City of Cultural Patrimony of Mankind by the Organization of United Nations.

Quito is distinguished as the best-preserved, least altered historic center in Latin America. The monasteries of San Francisco and Santo Domingo and the Church and Jesuit College of La Compania, with their rich interiors, are pure examples of the Baroque School of Quito which is a fusion of Spanish, Italian, Moorish, Flemish and indigenous art.

Quito Location

Approximately 20 minutes south of the equator, Ecuador’s capital is situated in the lush green Guapulo Valley, surrounded by rugged volcanic Andes Peaks reaching close to 20,00 feet. Quito is lively, scenic and cosmopolitan. Its one and a half million inhabitants tend to be helpful and friendly.

The Plaza Grande in the center of Quito is located at 9,200 ft (3000 m) elevation making Quito the second highest capital in the world after La Paz, Bolivia. The high altitude makes temperatures in Quito milder then one would image from an equatorial city. Average temperatures range from 55 F (7C) at night, to 78 F (26 C) at noon, averaging 64 F (15 C).

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History of Quito

The Old Town of Quito recounts its history as a Spanish Colonial City in both feel and charm. Together with Krakow, Poland Quito was the first city declared to be a World Heritage Site by UNESCO on September 18, 1978. The Old Town of Quito encompasses 320 hectares and is considered one of the most important historic areas within Latin America.

The occupation of Quito dates back to the first millennium. Early cultures include the Shyris followed by the Quitu (for which the city was named) and later the Caras. During the 1500's Quito was assimilated into the Incan Empire. During the realm of the Incas, the empire had two capitals the traditional capital of Cusco in Peru and Quito the northern capital. Unlike Cusco, little evidence of the Incas or earlier cultures remains in Quito today.

After the death of Atahualpa the Inca warriors continued to fight the Spanish. Inca General Ruminahui with help of the Canari continued the struggle against the Spanish. After being defeated at the Battle of Mount Chimborazo, Ruminahui feared it would not be long before the Spanish would conquer Quito. Rather than surrender the Inca capital, he set it on fire destroying pre Colombian city.

Quito was re-founded by the Spanish on December 6, 1534 a date that is still celebrated with the Fiestas de Quito. In 1535 Quito was given the title Muy Noble y Muy Leal Cuidad de San Francisco de Quito (The Very Noble and Loyal City of San Francisco of Quito). The following year Quito became the Real Audiencia de Quito, under the Viceroyalty of Peru. Much of the lands that were part of the Real Audiencia would later make up modern day Ecuador.

The Spanish patterned the colonial city of Quito in traditional fashion. The city radiated from the Plaza Grande, which was encircled by the Cathedral, the Archbishop's, Presidential and Municipal Palaces. The city was build with assorted adobe whitewashed buildings bordering the narrow cobblestone streets and lovely parks.

After 300 years as a colony, in the early 19th Century, Ecuador and Quito wanted their independence. The movement began in Quito in 1809 and spread throughout the country. It took almost 13 years for Quito to obtain liberty under the command of Simon Bolivar.

As part of the Republic of Ecuador, Quito continued to expand to the north of old-city stretching through the valley and up the slopes of Pichincha. Today Northern Quito is a lively and modern city. The skyline is filled with towering apartments, hotels, embassies and offices. Restaurants, cafes, discos, stores and palm trees align the broad avenues. Modern works of art celebrating Ecuadorian life are displayed at the roundabouts and main streets.

Thankfully much of the historic center of Quito remained or has been restored making the contrast between the old and the new a fascinating juxtaposition. The Colonial heart of Quito has approximately 5,000 registered historic landmark buildings making it a fascinating place to visit.

Quito Sights

Surrounded by mountains, Quito is a fascinating city with many historic and natural attractions. Visitors to Ecuador's capital will awe at the numerous gilded churches, interesting artwork and large parks and plazas Quito has to offer.

Plaza de Independencia

The Plaza de Independencia is the heart of Colonial Quito. This plaza has been an essential meeting place since the 16th century. From here all of Quito's streets radiate, making it the perfect place to begin a tour of the city. In the center of the plaza is the Independence Monument built to celebrate 100 years of independence in 1909. The sculpture consists of three parts a dying lion representing the Spanish. A condor that is breaking free from the chains of oppression and at the top the Goddess Libertas the Roman goddess of freedom.

The Cathedral de Quito borders one side of the Plaza Grande. Built between 1550 and 1562 the Cathedral of Quito is considered to be the oldest cathedral in South America. Unlike most Spanish Cathedrals the Quito Cathedral has two entrances one facing the Plaza Grande and the other facing west and Calle Garcia Moreno. The exterior of the church was built in orthodox Spanish design with plaques of Quito's founding fathers and Ollenana's expedition to the Amazon displayed on the front wall. The interior of the cathedral is elaborately decorated in baroque style with art from the Quito School of Art and a gilded altered and wooden coffered ceiling.

The catacombs below the cathedral is the final resting place of independence hero, General Antonio Jose de Sucre as well as several of Ecuador's presidents. The exterior of the cathedral makes a wonderful subject for photographers with its stark white walls and glazed green ceramic tile domed roof. Visiting hours are Monday to Friday 9:30 am to 4 pm and Saturday 10 am to 4 pm.

Next to the Cathedral is the Palacio de Carondelet or the Presidential Palace. Built to honor Baron Luis Hector de Carondelet, president of the Real Audience of Quito in 1801. During colonial times the building was headquarters to the Real Audiencia as well as the civil and military government for the region.

Today it serves as the state department and President's residence. Guarded by the Tarqui Guards, military guards who dress in traditional 19th century red, blue and gold uniform of Gran Colombia. The Presidential Palace has been the site of much of Ecuador's political history. Visitors are welcome to view the inner courtyard featuring a fountain, columns, iron balconies and the Guyasamin mosaic mural of the journey to explorer the Amazon. Hours are Monday to Friday 9:30 am to 1 pm and 3 pm to 5 pm.

The Archbishops Palace lies on the side of the Plaza Grande across from the Cathedral and next to the Presidential Palace. This building served as headquarters to the church during colonial times and residence of the Bishop during the 16th century. Today the Archbishops Place is home to a number of restaurants, cafes, art galleries and craft shops.

Just around the corner from the Cathedral are the golden doors of El Sagrario. Originally built in the 17th century as a cathedral chapel it has been completely renovated.

Basilica del Voto Nacional

The neo-Gothic Basilica del Voto Nacional (The Basilica of the National Vow) lies to the north of the Old Town. Also called either the Cathedral Consagracion de Jesus or Basilica de San Juan it is one of the largest neo-Gothic basilicas in the new world. Standing on top a steep hill the basilica is visible from almost everywhere in Quito. Climbing the stairs of the main tower offers panoramic vistas of both the old and new cities.

The Basilica spans 459 feet (140 meters) long and 114 feet (35 meters) high. The two frontal towers soar 377 feet (115 meters) high. The exterior is adorned with gargoyles representative of the famous wildlife of Ecuador including iguanas, boobies and Galapagos Tortoises. Inside the church there are 14 bronze statues representing the apostles and three evangelists.

Construction of the Cathedral began in 1887 and technically it remains unfinished as local legend states when it is completed the end of the world will come. Visitors are welcome daily 9 am to 5 pm.

Plaza de San Francisco and San Francisco Church

San Francisco Plaza is one of the largest plazas in Quito. Made up of volcanic stones it is home to the San Francisco Church and Convent, which are considered to be one of the largest architectural complexes in the Americas.

Prior to the arrival of the Spanish the site was a market place where people would come from all over the region to trade goods. Temples and Palaces were built here during the reign of the Incas.

The San Francisco Church and Monastery was constructed between 1535-1605 it is the oldest church in South America and considered a great masterpiece of baroque art.

San Francisco or the Escorial of the Andes was one of the first religious monuments to be constructed in the Americas. San Francisco is over 30,000 square meters and consists of a main plaza, the main church, the chapels of Cantuna and Villacis and a large convent.

The walls of the church and ceiling are covered in gold leaf. Inside the church is Bernard de Legarda's sculpture of the Winged Virgin, whose facial features resembles the indigenous peoples. Visitors are welcome other than during mass. Masses take place daily at 7 am, 8 am, 9 am, 10 am, 11 am 5 pm and 6 pm.

To one side of the San Francisco church is the atrium known as the Cantuna Chapel. The chapel was named for Francisco Cantuna the local stone mason who built it. The chapel's construction is riddled with rumors and legends. One says treasures from the Incan Empire financed the chapel. Another story tells of Cantuna agreed to build the chapel within a certain amount of time. When time grew short and the chapel was only half complete, Cantuna made a pact with the devil trading his soul to the devil in exchange for having the chapel completed by morning. In the morning the chapel was finished except for a single missing brick, which voided the contract and saved Cantuna's soul.

Cantuna's remains lie next door in the San Francisco Church. The chapel has a magnificent wood carved altar and a stone sculpture of the builder. Cantuna Chapel is open Tuesday to Thursday 8 am to 5 pm.

La Compania de Jesus

La Compania de Jesus is an ornate 18th century Jesuit church that took 163 years to construct. A blend of Baroque and Quiteno Art. With more than 1 ton of gold used during its construction virtually every inch of the church is covered in gold leaf.

The ceiling of La Compania is frequently referred to as the Sistine Chapel of Quito. Some say it is the most splendid church in Latin America. UNESCO has named La Compania de Jesus one of the 100 most important buildings in the world. Located at Calle Garcia Moreno 1 block from the Plaza de Independencia. Visiting hours are Monday to Friday 9:30 am to 5:30 pm, Saturday 9 am to 4:30 pm and Sunday 1 pm to 4 pm.

San Agustin Church and Convent

At the Corner of Chile and Guayaquil, 1 block from the Plaza de Independencia, is San Agustin Church and Convent. This is where in 1809 Ecuador declared its independence from Spain.

In the middle of the complex is a peaceful courtyard filled with fresh flowers. Robed monks live at the complex and help to preserve the great oil works by Miguel de Santiago hung there. The church is open daily the monastery is closed on weekends. Open to visitors Monday to Friday 9 am to 12:30 pm and 1 pm to 5 pm, Saturdays 9 am to 1 pm.

Santo Domingo Church and Monastery

Santo Domingo Church and Monastery is one of the most important religious structure in Quito. Located on the Plaza Santo Domingo is the church has a fine clock and interesting statues. The church houses a statue of the Virgen del Rosario a gift from King Charles V of Spain. The adjacent Santo Domingo Monastery houses a small museum of religious art from the Quito School of Art. The Santo Domingo Church welcomes visitors Monday to Friday 9 am to 5 pm and Saturdays and Sundays 9 am to 1 pm.

Leaving the Santo Domingo travel to the Southeast where the houses were carved with stone arches or cajoneras connecting the houses.

La Ronda

One of the oldest streets in the Old Town is La Ronda. This street is a fall back to days gone by the buildings are made from thick plastered bright white walls over a rock foundation. There are large Spanish-style wooden doors, and wrought-iron balconies with flags and potted geraniums.

A walk down this cobblestone street allows you to visit one what was once the bohemian district. Thanks to new urban renewal it is now a safe, beautiful, and historic neighborhood with galleries, shops and cafes.

El Panecillo

The traditional vista point for Quito, El Panecillo is a rounded hill over the Old Town. The site has lost popularity due to the Teleferico Quito, this option still offers a stunning view and without the altitude sickness issues of the Teleferico.

El Panecillo topped with Agustin de la Herran Matorras monument the Virgin of Quito created in 1976 this is a grand replica of the 18th century Virgin of Quito created by Bernado de Legarda composed of 7 thousand pieces it is one of the largest cast aluminum statues in the world. The original statue only 30 cm tall can be seen at the San Francisco Church.

From the top visitors are welcome to views of both the old and the new city as well as a spectacular view of the surrounding mountains. To reach the top of the hill take a taxi or car service. El Panecillo is open Monday to Friday 9 am to 6 pm and Saturday and Sundays 9 am to 5 pm.

Mariscal District

One of the most picturesque streets in the new city, Avenida Calama is the heart of the Mariscal District. Mariscal, was once the place to live in Quito (running along Juan Leon Mera between Veintimilla and Wilson). The large homes were built with outrageous imagination reflecting Ecuador's view of the world in the 1950's and 60's.

As Quito grew to the north, many of the families who once lived in Mariscal moved to newer sections or to the valleys below. Business began moving in and Mariscal became the tourist center of Quito with a selection of hotels, restaurants, Internet cafes, discos and shops.

Unlike other streets in the area, Avenida Calama is well preserved with many of the original houses remaining. Beginning at Avenida Amazonas there are a number of cafes and bars normally bustling with people. Avenida Calama is a great place to meet other travelers, have a cup of coffee and enjoy a book during the day, or dance the night away.

Teleferico Quito

Teleferico Quito or TeleferiQo A gondola style lift offering panoramic journeys up the Pichincha Volcano to the lookout at Cruz Loma. This is one of the highest aerial lifts in the world the start of the ride is at 10,226 feet (3,945 m) and takes 8 to 10 minutes to reach the the summit at 12,943 feet (3,945 m). There are 8 cars, which take a maximum of 6 passengers each.

The visitor center at the base includes an amusement park, restaurant and food court while at the summit are stores, a coffee bar, first aid station with oxygen, restaurants and several hiking trails as well as breathtaking views of Quito.

Central Bank Museum and Casa de Cultura

The Central Bank Museum and Casa de Cultura is the most important museum complex in Ecuador. At the junction of the new city and the old town behind El Ejido Park near the corner of 12 de Octubre and Avenida Patria. A great place to start any exploration of Ecuador, this large museum offers a huge selection of art and artifacts from the various eras Ecuador's History.

The most impressive collections in the Sala de Arquelogia with its dioramas and artifacts dating from 4000 BC to the Incan era of 1533 AD. There is an uncanny resemblance of the items found in the collection to items found in Asia and Japan in ancient times. The Sala de Oro has an amazing collection of Incan Gold.

The museum winds it way around the building the different rooms and floors being dedicated to specific eras. The impressive collection seems overwhelming as it tells the country's history through the eyes of various artists.

Permanent exhibits include the Museum of Modern Art with paintings and sculptures created since 1830. The Museum of Indigenous Work features traditional dress and adornments from Ecuador's many Indigenous groups. The Museum of Musical Instruments is known as being one of the best musical instrument collections in the world. The museum also has an extraordinary collection of Pre-Colombian and Colonial Art. Open Tuesday to Friday 9 am to 5 pm and Saturday and Sunday 10 am to 4 pm.

Guayasamin Museum

The Guayasamin Museum is located in the ortheast section of Quito at Bosmediano 543 Bellavista. Son of an indigenous carpenter the artist's works always portrayed the native's cause with great passion. A staunch defender of indigenous Guyasamin's art depicted various aspects of life and struggles in Ecuador. He divided his work into three categories Huacaynam (the road of tears, in Quechua), the age of wrath, and the age of tenderness.

The museum also houses the artist's personal collection of pre-Colombian and Colonial art. Set high on a hill above Quito offering great views of Quito's red tile roofs in a peaceful setting; the Guyasamin museum is an excellent place to enjoy a picnic lunch. Open Monday to Friday 10 am to 5 pm.

Recommended Hotels

Patio Andaluz - A boutique hotel located in the heart of the Old Town. With a maximum capacity of 63 guests in 11 suites and 21 rooms Patio Andaluz features a restaurant, cava-bar and library.

Casa Aliso - A boutique B & B full of personality and character and defined by its unique design, decor and ambiance.

Casa Gangotena - Situated in a newly-restored historic mansion overlooking the Plaza San Francisco, the three-story Casa Gangotena has 31 rooms. The hotel is a showcase of eye-catching style, contemporary design, antiques, fine furnishing, modern technology and quintessential comforts.

Hotel Plaza Grande - Rising above the Plaza de Independencia, the Hotel Plaza Grande was the first hotel ever constructed in the capital and has been extensively renovated to become the finest boutique hotel in the city. Plaza Grande has 15 suites, which combine the flavor of long-ago times with every detail that a modern five-star hotel could require.

Hilton Colon - Just 20 minutes from the Mariscal Sucre Airport, the Hilton Colon Quito is a 10 minute walk from the colonial Old Town. Choose from 5 dining experiences, including gourmet Mediterranean at Portofino and Japanese at Kioto. All Hilton Colon rooms have wireless internet access.

Mecure Grand Alameda Hotel - The Mecure Grand Alameda offers guests all facilities necessary for business or leisure trips. With 147 comfortable rooms with WI-FI many have recently been refurbished, soundproofed and equipment for your comfort.

Hotel Vieja Cuba - The comfortable Hotel Vieja Cuba is located in the Mariscal Distict of Quito in a majestic colonial house. All 26 rooms have all the services a modern life requires including Cable TV, in room safe and Wi-Fi access.