Quito, formally and historically known as San Francisco de Quito, is the
capital of Ecuador. This city is the highest official capital city in the
world because it is elevation of 9350 feet above sea level. Quito is also
the national capital that is located closest to the equator. The city
exerts a massive historical worth to itself as is built over the ruins of
the legendary Inca civilization. Tourists must visit here to admire its
profound historical and cultural identity and its colonial past that has
beautifully translated into one of the world’s best colonial city centers.
Things to do in Quito
Basilica of the National Vow
Basilica of the National Vow, located in historic center of Quito, is the
largest neo-Gothic basilica in North and South America. This basilica was
built sometime in late-19th century. A subject of both adoration and
architectural excellence, this basilica is 460-feet long, 115-feet wide,
and has a 98-feet high sanctuary.
Church and Monastery of St. Francis
Church and Monastery of St. Francis, founded in 1534, is a 16th-century
Roman Catholic complex in Quito. This church belongs to the largest
architectural group of structures in the entire span of colonial Latin
America. Church and Monastery of St. Francis has braved through earthquakes
and was affected by prevailing architectural trends from the day of its
founding until its completion in 1680 AD.
Church of the Society of Jesus
For the tourists who are looking for a church that combines the two
distinct attributes of history and architecture, Church of the Society of
Jesus is an excellent place to visit. This church stands as one of the best
examples of Latin American Baroque architecture in the country. Its ornate
interiors feature works of gold leaf, wood carvings and gilded plaster.
This church was constructed to mark the watershed moment of the arrival of
Jesuit priests to Quito in July 1586.
Best Time to Visit Quito
Summer and winter seasons, the months from from June to August, and then
from December and January are the best to book flights from Los Angeles to
Quito. Tourists can book flights from LAX to UIO during this time of the
year to enjoy famous cultural events like Simon Bolívar Day (July 24),
National Independence Day (Aug 10), Christmas Day (Dec 25) and New Year
celebrations.