City’s History in Brief in Quito, Ecuador
1. Mitad del Mundo (Middle of the World)
Visit the monument marking the equator line, where you can stand with one foot in each hemisphere.
- Historical Significance: First scientific measurement of the Earth's shape and size.
- Interactive Experience: Balancing an egg on the equator line is a popular challenge!
- Souvenirs: Buy souvenirs like half-footballs to commemorate your unique experience.
2. La Compañía de Jesús (The Society of Jesus)
Explore the ornate Baroque-style church and convent built by the Jesuit order.
- Architectural Marvel: Gold-leaf interior adornments and intricate sculptures.
- Historical Context: Learn about the Jesuit order's influence on Quito during colonial times.
- Guided Tours: Join guided tours to deepen your understanding of this important site.
3. Carrion Hill (Cerro de la Cruz)
Hike to the top for panoramic views of Quito and visit the historical cross.
- Natural Beauty: Enjoy stunning vistas of Quito's cityscape and surrounding volcanoes.
- Historical Landmark: Celebrate the city's founding with the historical cross.
- Local Food Stalls: Sample traditional Ecuadorian dishes at nearby food stalls.
4. San Francisco Church (Iglesia de San Francisco)
Discover the beautiful church with a unique underground crypt.
- Archaeological Finds: View Inca artifacts and colonial-era paintings.
- Underground Crypt: Wander through the unique subterranean space.
- Guided Tours: Join guided tours to learn about Quito's rich history.
5. Intiñan Museum
Experience the indigenous way of life through interactive exhibits.
- Cultural Immersion: Participate in traditional weaving, cooking, and music demonstrations.
- Pre-Columbian Artifacts: View an impressive collection of pre-Columbian artifacts.
- Guided Tours: Join guided tours to deepen your understanding of indigenous cultures.
6. Basílica del Voto Nacional
Marvel at the Gothic Revival-style cathedral and climb its towers for breathtaking views.
- Architectural Masterpiece: Intricate stone carvings and stained glass windows.
- Tower Climbs: Climb the towers for panoramic views of Quito and its surroundings.
- Historical Context: Learn about the cathedral's unfinished history.
7. Plaza de las Artes (Art Square)
Explore galleries showcasing local and international art.
- Cultural Exchange: Experience diverse artistic expressions.
- Temporary Exhibits: Discover new exhibitions showcasing various art forms.
- Workshops and Classes: Participate in hands-on workshops or classes.
8. Casa del Alabado Museum
Discover the pre-Columbian history of Ecuador through unique stone sculptures.
- Pre-Columbian Artifacts: View a remarkable collection of ancient stone carvings.
- Interactive Exhibits: Engage with interactive exhibits to deepen your understanding.
- Guided Tours: Join guided tours for an enriching experience.
9. Panecillo (Little Breadloaf)
Climb the hill to see the Virgin of Quito statue and enjoy panoramic views.
- Natural Beauty: Enjoy stunning vistas of Quito and its surrounding landscape.
- Historical Landmark: Honour the city's patron saint with a visit to the Virgin of Quito statue.
- Local Food Stalls: Sample traditional Ecuadorian dishes at nearby food stalls.
10. Iglesia de San Francisco de Borja
Discover the stunning Baroque-style church with a unique dome design.
- Architectural Marvel: Be amazed by the intricate sculptures and gold-leaf interior.
- Historical Context: Learn about the church's role in Quito's history during colonial times.
- Guided Tours: Join guided tours to deepen your understanding of this important site.
11. Plaza de San Francisco
Relax and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Quito's historic main square.
- Cultural Exchange: Experience local life, music, and food.
- Historical Significance: Appreciate the architectural and historical importance of the surrounding buildings.
- Guided Tours: Join guided tours to learn about Quito's rich history and culture.
12. Iglesia de la Compañía de Jesús (Church of the Society of Jesus)
Admire the ornate Baroque-style church built by the Jesuit order.
- Architectural Masterpiece: Be amazed by the gold-leaf interior and intricate sculptures.
- Historical Context: Learn about the Jesuit order's influence on Quito during colonial times.
- Guided Tours: Join guided tours to deepen your understanding of this important site.
13. Casa de la Cultura Ecuatoriana (House of Ecuadorian Culture)
Learn about Ecuador's rich culture and history through exhibits, workshops, and performances.
- Cultural Exchange: Experience diverse cultural expressions.
- Temporary Exhibits: Discover new exhibitions showcasing various aspects of Ecuadorian culture.
- Workshops and Classes: Participate in hands-on workshops or classes.
14. San Agustín Church (Iglesia de San Agustín)
Admire the beautiful church with unique wood carvings and a stunning organ.
- Architectural Masterpiece: Be amazed by the intricate wood carvings and gold-leaf interior.
- Historical Context: Learn about the church's role in Quito's history during colonial times.
- Guided Tours: Join guided tours to deepen your understanding of this important site.
15. Plaza de las Fuerzas Armadas (Military Square)
Relax and enjoy the beautiful architecture surrounding Quito's military square.
- Cultural Exchange: Experience local life, music, and food.
- Historical Significance: Appreciate the architectural and historical importance of the surrounding buildings.
- Guided Tours: Join guided tours to learn about Quito's rich history and culture.