Sandwiched between the Machángara river canyon and the base of the Pichincha Volcano is the Ecuadorian capital city of Quito, unofficially South America|South America’s most beautiful capital. Located at an altitude of around 10,000 feet, visitors may be breathless for reasons other than the city’s breathtaking architecture.
Quito can be roughly divided into two parts, the Old City and the New City. The Old City is a prime hunting ground for fans of ancient cathedrals and communal buildings. Most of the newer buildings and tourist areas are in the northern part of Quito, while the majority of the poor residents and the historic buildings are in the south.
Night-time entertainment consists mainly of British-style pubs or mediocre bars and dance clubs. The National Symphony performs weekly at various venues around town, including at some colonial churches. When sightseeing, remember that many attractions close between noon and 15:00. If you’re caught out during siesta, head up El Panecillo hill for panoramic views of the city.
Highlights
La Basílica: is an impressive cathedral and a work in progress, modeled on Paris‘ Notre Dame.
Independence place: is Quito’s main square and is bordered by the Government Palace to the west, City Hall to the east, the city’s cathedral to the south and the Archbishop’s Palace to the north.
La Vírgen del Panecillo: is a huge statue of the Virgin Mary on top of El Panecillo, quipped to be the only virgin in Quito.
Church of San Francisco: was built on top of an Inca temple and was the first church built in Quito in 1535.
San Francisco Museum and Convent: is attached to the Church of San Francisco and offers opportunities to see the convent and the church’s choir.
City Museum: is housed on two floors surrounding a quiet courtyard and features re-enacted scenes from daily Ecuadorian life.
Church of Merced: was originally built in 1538 and features a Baroque gold-leaf altar and oil paintings by prominent national artists.