Best 7 Interesting Places in Quito

Quito the Divines city and capital of Ecuador a Spanish colonial city and baroque gem surrounded by volcanic mountains. Its historic center was built on the ruins of an Inca city.

La Basilica

La Basilica is situated on a northern end and is one of the city's most monumental buildings. Measuring a hundred and forty meters long and 35 meters wide, it one of Quitas earliest religious buildings, its construction began in 1892 and a hundred years later it was consecrated by the Pope. Its gargoyles represent local wildlife and two huge tower frames. In the most recent building to be constructed the tradition of medieval glass painting was used for the Basilica's large and colorful windows. The city’s religious culture lives on, the Basilica is an architectural symbol of an autocratic Catholic church dominated by the country until the liberal revolution.

Casa De Benalcazar

On the sixth of December 1536, Quito was re-established when Spanish conquistadors Sebastin De Ben Alcazar invaded the Incas under Ramona Hui destroyed the settlement. Thus, everything had to be rebuilt.

Plaza Grande

Plaza Grande is located at the heart of the Old Town originated at that time and in this square, the country’s history unfolded through its foundation right up until its independence. The monument of heroes is to be found in the centre of the square constructed in memory of the brave men who fought for the country’s independence.

Palacio De Gobierno

Framed by the cathedral and the elongated governmental palace. Guards in colourful historic uniforms guard the entrance that is situated in an elevated arcade corridor. Ecuador has been ruled from here for 400 years while military parades are a reminder of colonial times. For around 200 years the city was under the control of the Vice Kingdom of Peru later Quito belonged to the Vice Kingdom.

Palacio Arzobispal

On the northern side of the plaza lays Palacio Arzobispal the Archbishop Palace. Its size and location highlight the prominent post of the Catholic Church that continues to be of great importance today.

Cathedral Metropolitana

Cathedral Metropolitana is located on the opposite side of the square; the complex is the result of various building epochs. Its neoclassical entrance originated at the beginning of the 19th century. Stairs led up to a tower-like domed building, the Cathedral has a long and dramatic history. In 1535 the first church was erected here made from clay bricks and with a straw roof. In 1572 it was replaced with a building constructed of stone following each earthquake. The church was rebuilt in larger and larger proportions, the interior is decorated with numerous paintings and carvings.

Museo Mena Caamano

Within a side alley is the Museo Mena Caamano, today it is in a courtyard that features an old printing machine and a model of the Old Town that in former times it was a place of execution. In 1810 the leaders of the independence movement were imprisoned here in subterranean dungeons.

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