Historical Religious Buildings Tour (Self Guided), Quito
As a former Spanish colony, Ecuador and its capital city Quito are home to literally dozens of Catholic churches. The Spaniards brought their faith into the new country and built many great temples here, some of which even pre-date the city of Quito itself.
Among the key local landmarks of ecclesiastical architecture is the Santo Domingo Church, dating back to the 16th century and showcasing a stunning blend of Baroque and Moorish styles.
Another noteworthy site is the Church of San Francisco (Iglesia de San Francisco). This is one of the oldest and largest religious complexes in Quito, with a captivating mix of Gothic and Baroque influences, also known as the Mudéjar style.
La Compania, or the Church of the Society of Jesus, stands out for its ornate facade and intricate interiors adorned with golden leaf decorations. Its craftsmanship is a testament to the skill of the artisans of the time, similar to those who built the Church of the Sanctuary (Iglesia de El Sagrario), renowned for its beautiful altar.
The Quito Metropolitan Cathedral (Catedral Metropolitana de Quito) is a grand example of Ecuadorian colonial architecture. Its towering structure stands prominently on the city's skyline.
Meanwhile, the Convent of Mercy (Convento de la Merced), renowned for its impressive cloisters and religious artwork, reflects the devotion and dedication of the Mercedarian order.
The Church and Convent of San Agustin are significant for their historical and architectural value. Having witnessed centuries of Quito's history, they continue to be important spiritual centers.
Finally, the Basilica of the National Vow (Basilica del Voto Nacional) is a masterpiece of Neo-Gothic architecture, which, on top of that, offers panoramic views of the city.
If you plan to visit Quito, make sure to include these remarkable churches in your itinerary. Exploring their intricate details and learning about their historical significance can provide you with a deeper understanding of Ecuador's cultural heritage.
Among the key local landmarks of ecclesiastical architecture is the Santo Domingo Church, dating back to the 16th century and showcasing a stunning blend of Baroque and Moorish styles.
Another noteworthy site is the Church of San Francisco (Iglesia de San Francisco). This is one of the oldest and largest religious complexes in Quito, with a captivating mix of Gothic and Baroque influences, also known as the Mudéjar style.
La Compania, or the Church of the Society of Jesus, stands out for its ornate facade and intricate interiors adorned with golden leaf decorations. Its craftsmanship is a testament to the skill of the artisans of the time, similar to those who built the Church of the Sanctuary (Iglesia de El Sagrario), renowned for its beautiful altar.
The Quito Metropolitan Cathedral (Catedral Metropolitana de Quito) is a grand example of Ecuadorian colonial architecture. Its towering structure stands prominently on the city's skyline.
Meanwhile, the Convent of Mercy (Convento de la Merced), renowned for its impressive cloisters and religious artwork, reflects the devotion and dedication of the Mercedarian order.
The Church and Convent of San Agustin are significant for their historical and architectural value. Having witnessed centuries of Quito's history, they continue to be important spiritual centers.
Finally, the Basilica of the National Vow (Basilica del Voto Nacional) is a masterpiece of Neo-Gothic architecture, which, on top of that, offers panoramic views of the city.
If you plan to visit Quito, make sure to include these remarkable churches in your itinerary. Exploring their intricate details and learning about their historical significance can provide you with a deeper understanding of Ecuador's cultural heritage.
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Historical Religious Buildings Tour Map
Guide Name: Historical Religious Buildings Tour
Guide Location: Ecuador » Quito (See other walking tours in Quito)
Guide Type: Self-guided Walking Tour (Sightseeing)
# of Attractions: 8
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.7 Km or 1.7 Miles
Author: vickyc
Sight(s) Featured in This Guide:
Guide Location: Ecuador » Quito (See other walking tours in Quito)
Guide Type: Self-guided Walking Tour (Sightseeing)
# of Attractions: 8
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.7 Km or 1.7 Miles
Author: vickyc
Sight(s) Featured in This Guide:
- Santo Domingo Church and Square
- Iglesia de San Francisco (Church of San Francisco)
- La Compania (Church of the Society of Jesus)
- Iglesia de El Sagrario (Church of the Sanctuary)
- Catedral Metropolitana de Quito (Quito Cathedral)
- Convento de la Merced (Convent of Mercy)
- Church and Convent of San Agustin
- Basilica del Voto Nacional (Basilica of the National Vow)
1) Santo Domingo Church and Square
The Church of Santo Domingo is a must-visit attraction for those who appreciate religious architecture and history. Located in the historic center of Quito, the church and its accompanying convent and chapels occupy a large space facing the Plaza de Santo Domingo. The plaza is named after the church, which is one of the most important in Quito.
The church's interior is richly decorated, with cedar work covered in gold leaf and many paintings and carvings adorning the walls. The main altar is especially impressive, and there are ten side chapels that add to the splendor of the interior. The Chapel of the Virgen del Rosario is particularly noteworthy, but visitors should also take the time to explore the other chapels and appreciate the cultural significance of the temple.
The Cloister is another highlight of the complex, with its elegant corridors and bays adorned with double arches and octagonal pillars. It was designed by brother Antonio RodrĂguez, based on the plans of Francisco Becerra.
The Chapel del Rosario is the richest and most famous of the church's chapels. It is located on the south side of the transept and is built on three different levels. From this chapel, visitors can see the Arch of Santo Domingo, which was built to overcome an unevenness in the land and features cone-shaped buttresses that resemble lookout posts.
The Plaza de Santo Domingo is a lovely open space in front of the church. At the center of the plaza, there is a monument to Marshal Antonio JosĂ© de Sucre, a Venezuelan hero of the Independence. Around the plaza, visitors can also find important civil buildings, such as the old Colonial University of Santo Tomás de Aquino and the mansion of former president Gabriel GarcĂa Moreno.
The plaza has undergone several transformations over the years, from a simple esplanade to a park and then a bus station. Today, it is paved with stone and offers visitors a quiet place to relax and take in the beautiful surroundings.
The church's interior is richly decorated, with cedar work covered in gold leaf and many paintings and carvings adorning the walls. The main altar is especially impressive, and there are ten side chapels that add to the splendor of the interior. The Chapel of the Virgen del Rosario is particularly noteworthy, but visitors should also take the time to explore the other chapels and appreciate the cultural significance of the temple.
The Cloister is another highlight of the complex, with its elegant corridors and bays adorned with double arches and octagonal pillars. It was designed by brother Antonio RodrĂguez, based on the plans of Francisco Becerra.
The Chapel del Rosario is the richest and most famous of the church's chapels. It is located on the south side of the transept and is built on three different levels. From this chapel, visitors can see the Arch of Santo Domingo, which was built to overcome an unevenness in the land and features cone-shaped buttresses that resemble lookout posts.
The Plaza de Santo Domingo is a lovely open space in front of the church. At the center of the plaza, there is a monument to Marshal Antonio JosĂ© de Sucre, a Venezuelan hero of the Independence. Around the plaza, visitors can also find important civil buildings, such as the old Colonial University of Santo Tomás de Aquino and the mansion of former president Gabriel GarcĂa Moreno.
The plaza has undergone several transformations over the years, from a simple esplanade to a park and then a bus station. Today, it is paved with stone and offers visitors a quiet place to relax and take in the beautiful surroundings.
2) Iglesia de San Francisco (Church of San Francisco) (must see)
The dominant structure in San Francisco Square is the Church and Convent of San Francisco, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1978. Founded in 1534, it is Quito’s oldest and most significant religious site. Construction began in 1537, and while major portions were completed in the 16th century, work continued for more than 160 years, with the façade finished around 1680.
The vast complex includes three churches, thirteen cloisters for monks, a library containing historical documents, and a museum that holds over 3,500 pieces of religious art. It is regarded as the largest colonial architectural complex in the Americas.
Over the centuries, earthquakes have repeatedly damaged parts of the structure, requiring ongoing maintenance and restoration. In recognition of its cultural and architectural importance, it was included in the 2016 World Monuments Watch to support conservation efforts.
The church’s architecture blends Renaissance and Baroque elements on the exterior, while the interior reflects a fusion of Catholic and Indigenous artistic traditions. Today, the Church and Convent of San Francisco remain a major center of religious life and heritage in Quito, attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors each year.
The vast complex includes three churches, thirteen cloisters for monks, a library containing historical documents, and a museum that holds over 3,500 pieces of religious art. It is regarded as the largest colonial architectural complex in the Americas.
Over the centuries, earthquakes have repeatedly damaged parts of the structure, requiring ongoing maintenance and restoration. In recognition of its cultural and architectural importance, it was included in the 2016 World Monuments Watch to support conservation efforts.
The church’s architecture blends Renaissance and Baroque elements on the exterior, while the interior reflects a fusion of Catholic and Indigenous artistic traditions. Today, the Church and Convent of San Francisco remain a major center of religious life and heritage in Quito, attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors each year.
3) La Compania (Church of the Society of Jesus) (must see)
The Church of the Society of Jesus, located in Quito’s historic center, is a beautiful example of Spanish Baroque architecture. Construction began in 1605 under the direction of Jesuit architects and was completed over 160 years later.
The church reflects the influence of multiple architects over its long construction, blending different architectural styles, though Baroque dominates. Its interiors are adorned with gold leaf, covering walls, ceilings, the central nave, and domes—an effect that remains visually stunning despite earlier exaggerations of its volume. The main façade is carved entirely from volcanic stone, adding to the building’s grandeur.
Inside, visitors can admire 56 sculptures and 44 oil paintings. Notable works include Nicolás Javier de Goribar’s 16 Prophets, The Four Evangelists, and The Cardinals of the Society of Jesus, alongside sculptures by Bernardo de Legarda. Flanking the main entrance are paintings depicting Hell and the Final Judgment. The church also features representations of native flora and symbols of Ecuador’s ancestral peoples hidden within its pillars, as well as a historic organ dating back to 1889.
The church has been a site of important religious events. Pope John Paul II celebrated Mass here during his 1985 visit to Ecuador, and Pope Francis visited in 2015. Today, it stands as a remarkable testament to Quito’s colonial history, artistry, and religious heritage.
The church reflects the influence of multiple architects over its long construction, blending different architectural styles, though Baroque dominates. Its interiors are adorned with gold leaf, covering walls, ceilings, the central nave, and domes—an effect that remains visually stunning despite earlier exaggerations of its volume. The main façade is carved entirely from volcanic stone, adding to the building’s grandeur.
Inside, visitors can admire 56 sculptures and 44 oil paintings. Notable works include Nicolás Javier de Goribar’s 16 Prophets, The Four Evangelists, and The Cardinals of the Society of Jesus, alongside sculptures by Bernardo de Legarda. Flanking the main entrance are paintings depicting Hell and the Final Judgment. The church also features representations of native flora and symbols of Ecuador’s ancestral peoples hidden within its pillars, as well as a historic organ dating back to 1889.
The church has been a site of important religious events. Pope John Paul II celebrated Mass here during his 1985 visit to Ecuador, and Pope Francis visited in 2015. Today, it stands as a remarkable testament to Quito’s colonial history, artistry, and religious heritage.
4) Iglesia de El Sagrario (Church of the Sanctuary)
The Church of the Sanctuary (Iglesia de El Sagrario) in Quito is a magnificent Renaissance Catholic church, which is an integral part of the Metropolitan Cathedral complex. Although it is physically connected to the cathedral, the Church of the Sanctuary stands out as an independent church due to its size and importance in the city's art. This type of sacramental chapel was originally designed as a temple annexed to a larger one and was brought to the New World by the Spanish, who built cathedrals with similar chapels.
The Church of the Sanctuary was built on an arcade that closed the old Zanguña ravine, adjacent to the Cathedral. It was designed by the architect José Jaime Ortiz, who arrived in Quito from Alicante, Spain in 1694. The church was built according to the Italian Renaissance style that was popular at the time. The façade of the church was completed by Gabriel de Escorza in 1706, while the rest of the construction was finished in 1715.
The interior of the church is particularly impressive, with beautiful altarpieces and intricate wood carvings. The main gate is considered one of the most impressive manifestations of Quitoan Baroque. It was created by Bernardo de Legarda, a famous woodcarver, and features plant forms that culminate in capricious capitals and cornices. The central vault of the church is decorated with frescoes that depict scenes from the Bible, and was commissioned by master Legarda in 1742.
The Church of the Sanctuary was built on an arcade that closed the old Zanguña ravine, adjacent to the Cathedral. It was designed by the architect José Jaime Ortiz, who arrived in Quito from Alicante, Spain in 1694. The church was built according to the Italian Renaissance style that was popular at the time. The façade of the church was completed by Gabriel de Escorza in 1706, while the rest of the construction was finished in 1715.
The interior of the church is particularly impressive, with beautiful altarpieces and intricate wood carvings. The main gate is considered one of the most impressive manifestations of Quitoan Baroque. It was created by Bernardo de Legarda, a famous woodcarver, and features plant forms that culminate in capricious capitals and cornices. The central vault of the church is decorated with frescoes that depict scenes from the Bible, and was commissioned by master Legarda in 1742.
5) Catedral Metropolitana de Quito (Quito Cathedral)
The Quito Metropolitan Cathedral, commonly known as Quito Cathedral, stands proudly on the southwestern side of Independence Plaza. Construction began in the mid-1550s under the guidance of the Spanish architect Antonio GarcĂa, who oversaw the first two stages of the project. The cathedral was officially completed and consecrated in 1572 by Quito’s second bishop, Pedro de la Peña.
In 1660, the eruption of Mount Pichincha devastated the church, destroying large portions of the building. Reconstruction efforts restored and expanded the cathedral, with the work finally completed in 1806. The structure showcases an impressive blend of architectural styles, including Baroque, Moorish, Neoclassical, and Gothic elements. Inside, visitors can admire exquisite artwork by the renowned Ecuadorian sculptor Manuel Chili, better known as Caspicara.
From 1545 to 1848, the cathedral served as the seat of the Diocese of Quito. It became the city’s Archdiocese in 1848 and, in 1995, was officially recognized as the Cathedral of Ecuador, cementing its central role in the country’s religious life.
Quito Cathedral is also the final resting place of some of Ecuador’s most significant historical figures. These include Field Marshal Antonio José de Sucre, one of the liberators of Quito, Cardinal Carlos de la Torre, and several former presidents and bishops. Walking through the cathedral, visitors can feel the deep history and legacy of the city, from its colonial roots to its place at the heart of Ecuador’s spiritual and political life.
In 1660, the eruption of Mount Pichincha devastated the church, destroying large portions of the building. Reconstruction efforts restored and expanded the cathedral, with the work finally completed in 1806. The structure showcases an impressive blend of architectural styles, including Baroque, Moorish, Neoclassical, and Gothic elements. Inside, visitors can admire exquisite artwork by the renowned Ecuadorian sculptor Manuel Chili, better known as Caspicara.
From 1545 to 1848, the cathedral served as the seat of the Diocese of Quito. It became the city’s Archdiocese in 1848 and, in 1995, was officially recognized as the Cathedral of Ecuador, cementing its central role in the country’s religious life.
Quito Cathedral is also the final resting place of some of Ecuador’s most significant historical figures. These include Field Marshal Antonio José de Sucre, one of the liberators of Quito, Cardinal Carlos de la Torre, and several former presidents and bishops. Walking through the cathedral, visitors can feel the deep history and legacy of the city, from its colonial roots to its place at the heart of Ecuador’s spiritual and political life.
6) Convento de la Merced (Convent of Mercy)
The Basilica of Nuestra Señora de la Merced, also known as the Convento de la Merced, is a significant religious and historical landmark located in the heart of the Historic Center of Quito. The Basilica is the first church and headquarters of the Mercedarian Order in the country, and it holds the title of a Basilica. Its construction began in 1701 under the direction of the architect José Jaime Ortiz and was completed in 1737. The white building features five domes, a square tower, and is adorned with Inca and Arabic inscriptions.
One of the most remarkable features of the Basilica of Nuestra Señora de la Merced is its main altarpiece, which was built and carved by Bernardo de Legarda between 1748 and 1751. Visitors can also admire the sacristy, which is a stunning work from the early 19th century. Additionally, the church boasts several works of art by the artist VĂctor Mideros, both inside the church and the sacristy.
The Basilica of Nuestra Señora de la Merced houses one of the most important historical libraries in Quito. The library is located on two floors of the north wing of the Convent, which is accessible through both the lower and upper floors. Bookcases line the walls of both levels, and the two floors are connected by a beautifully carved wooden spiral staircase. The library boasts a collection of 22,000 volumes and over 40,000 bibliographic records, making it an essential resource for scholars and researchers interested in Ecuadorian history and culture.
One of the most remarkable features of the Basilica of Nuestra Señora de la Merced is its main altarpiece, which was built and carved by Bernardo de Legarda between 1748 and 1751. Visitors can also admire the sacristy, which is a stunning work from the early 19th century. Additionally, the church boasts several works of art by the artist VĂctor Mideros, both inside the church and the sacristy.
The Basilica of Nuestra Señora de la Merced houses one of the most important historical libraries in Quito. The library is located on two floors of the north wing of the Convent, which is accessible through both the lower and upper floors. Bookcases line the walls of both levels, and the two floors are connected by a beautifully carved wooden spiral staircase. The library boasts a collection of 22,000 volumes and over 40,000 bibliographic records, making it an essential resource for scholars and researchers interested in Ecuadorian history and culture.
7) Church and Convent of San Agustin
The Church and Convent of San AgustĂn is a must-see for anyone visiting Quito. It is one of the seven monumental churches of the 16th and 17th centuries and is rich in history and architectural beauty.
The Augustinian order was assigned the site where the church and convent now stand in 1573. They began construction of the convent, but the church was not built until much later, between 1606 and 1617, by Juan del Corral, based on the plans designed by the architect Francisco Becerra in 1581. Becerra also worked on the design of the Church of Santo Domingo.
The church's main portal is a beautiful example of the Neoclassical style printed by Diego de Escarza, which features Spanish and Amerindian decorative elements. The bell tower is also impressive, reaching a height of 37 meters and containing the same bells placed there in the 17th century.
The convent, built in the 16th century, has a separate entrance on the eastern side of the façade and forms a single architectural complex together with the temple and a small atrium with a stone cross on the corner diametrically opposite the latter's entrance. The cloister was completed in the middle of the 17th century and features gardens and a large session hall called the Chapter House, which was only conceived in the 18th century. It was here that the Act of the Governing Board of 1809 was signed and the first cry of freedom was given.
One of the main attractions of the Church of San AgustĂn is the enormous painting that hangs on its main altar. The painting, titled "The Triumph of Saint Augustine," is the work of Miguel de Santiago and was completed in the 17th century.
The Augustinian order was assigned the site where the church and convent now stand in 1573. They began construction of the convent, but the church was not built until much later, between 1606 and 1617, by Juan del Corral, based on the plans designed by the architect Francisco Becerra in 1581. Becerra also worked on the design of the Church of Santo Domingo.
The church's main portal is a beautiful example of the Neoclassical style printed by Diego de Escarza, which features Spanish and Amerindian decorative elements. The bell tower is also impressive, reaching a height of 37 meters and containing the same bells placed there in the 17th century.
The convent, built in the 16th century, has a separate entrance on the eastern side of the façade and forms a single architectural complex together with the temple and a small atrium with a stone cross on the corner diametrically opposite the latter's entrance. The cloister was completed in the middle of the 17th century and features gardens and a large session hall called the Chapter House, which was only conceived in the 18th century. It was here that the Act of the Governing Board of 1809 was signed and the first cry of freedom was given.
One of the main attractions of the Church of San AgustĂn is the enormous painting that hangs on its main altar. The painting, titled "The Triumph of Saint Augustine," is the work of Miguel de Santiago and was completed in the 17th century.
8) Basilica del Voto Nacional (Basilica of the National Vow) (must see)
At an altitude of 9,350 feet, Quito is the second-highest capital city in the world, surpassed only by La Paz, Bolivia. Yet even at this height, visitors will be tempted to climb to the top of the Basilica of the National Vow to take in its stunning panoramic views.
The idea for Quito’s most impressive Roman Catholic church was conceived in 1883, when congressman Father Julio Matovelle proposed building a monument to commemorate Ecuador’s consecration to the Sacred Heart of Jesus, the nation’s patron and protector. Construction began a year later, and the first stone was laid in 1892.
It took 30 years to build the Basilica, but it has not officially been completed. According to local legend, the world will end once the structure is finished. Located in the San Juan neighborhood, the Basilica stands 377 feet tall, making it the highest church in South America.
Designed in the Neo-Gothic style, the project was overseen by French architect Emilio Tarlier, who drew inspiration from Notre Dame in Paris and the Cathedral of Burgos in Spain. Ecuador’s Congress allocated 12,000 pesos for its construction. Surrounding the central nave are 24 chapels, each representing one of Ecuador’s provinces. Beneath the church lies an underground crypt and a pantheon where four Heads of State are buried.
Visiting the Basilica is an experience in itself. Guests can explore its intricate architecture on a self-guided tour and ascend even higher—by elevator or stairs—to the top floors, where a museum and café await. The real highlight, however, is the breathtaking view of Quito’s rooftops and surrounding Andean peaks from the tower, an unforgettable sight that captures the city’s grandeur.
The idea for Quito’s most impressive Roman Catholic church was conceived in 1883, when congressman Father Julio Matovelle proposed building a monument to commemorate Ecuador’s consecration to the Sacred Heart of Jesus, the nation’s patron and protector. Construction began a year later, and the first stone was laid in 1892.
It took 30 years to build the Basilica, but it has not officially been completed. According to local legend, the world will end once the structure is finished. Located in the San Juan neighborhood, the Basilica stands 377 feet tall, making it the highest church in South America.
Designed in the Neo-Gothic style, the project was overseen by French architect Emilio Tarlier, who drew inspiration from Notre Dame in Paris and the Cathedral of Burgos in Spain. Ecuador’s Congress allocated 12,000 pesos for its construction. Surrounding the central nave are 24 chapels, each representing one of Ecuador’s provinces. Beneath the church lies an underground crypt and a pantheon where four Heads of State are buried.
Visiting the Basilica is an experience in itself. Guests can explore its intricate architecture on a self-guided tour and ascend even higher—by elevator or stairs—to the top floors, where a museum and café await. The real highlight, however, is the breathtaking view of Quito’s rooftops and surrounding Andean peaks from the tower, an unforgettable sight that captures the city’s grandeur.
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