Quito is the capital of Ecuador and the second-highest official capital city in the world, at an altitude of 2,850 meters (9,350 ft). Its historic center is one of the largest and best-preserved in the Americas.
Quito was founded in 1534 by the Spanish conquistador Sebastián de Benalcázar on the site of an ancient Inca city. The city quickly became an important center of trade and commerce, and it was eventually named the capital of the Spanish colony of New Granada.
In the 19th century, Quito became the capital of the newly independent Republic of Ecuador. The city has continued to grow and develop in the 20th and 21st centuries, and it is now a major center of culture, education, and tourism.
Quito is a city with a rich history and culture. The historic center is home to several colonial-era buildings, including churches, monasteries, and palaces. The city is also home to museums, art galleries, and theaters.
Quito is also a popular tourist destination. The city is located in the Andes Mountains, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Quito is also home to a number of natural attractions, including the Mitad del Mundo (Middle of the World) monument and the Cotopaxi National Park.
What to do in Quito
Here are some of the things you can do in Quito:
- Visit the historic center: The historic center of Quito is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is home to several colonial-era buildings, including churches, monasteries, and palaces.
- Visit the Mitad del Mundo monument: The Mitad del Mundo monument is located at the equator. It is a popular tourist destination and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
- Visit the Cotopaxi National Park: The Cotopaxi National Park is home to the Cotopaxi volcano, one of the highest active volcanoes in the world. The park is also home to various other wildlife, including Andean bears, condors, and hummingbirds.
- Hike to the top of El Panecillo: El Panecillo is a hill located in the center of Quito. It is home to a giant statue of the Virgin Mary, and it offers stunning views of the city.
- Visit the San Francisco Church: The San Francisco Church is a 16th-century church located in the historic center of Quito. It is one of the most important churches in the city, and it is home to a number of works of art, including paintings and sculptures.
- Visit the La Compania Church: The La Compania Church is a 17th-century church in the historic center of Quito. It is one of the most beautiful churches in the city, and it is home to many works of art, including paintings and sculptures.
- Visit the Ecuadorian National Museum: The Ecuadorian National Museum is located in the historic center of Quito. It is one of the most important museums in the country, and it is home to a collection of artifacts that date back to the pre-Columbian era.
- Visit the Guayasamín Museum: The Guayasamín Museum is located in the historic center of Quito. It is a museum dedicated to the work of Ecuadorian artist Oswaldo Guayasamín.
- Visit the TelefériQo: The TelefériQo is a cable car system that offers stunning city views. It is a popular tourist attraction and a great way to see the city from above.
- Visit the Mariscal Foch Square: The Mariscal Foch Square is a popular tourist destination. It is a lively square home to several restaurants, bars, and shops.
- Visit La Carolina Park: La Carolina Park is a large park located in the center of Quito. It is a popular place for locals and tourists to relax and enjoy the outdoors.
- Visit Itchimbia Park: Itchimbia Park is a large park located on the outskirts of Quito. It is home to several museums, art galleries, and theaters.
Tips for your visit
Here are some tips for planning your trip to Quito:
- The best time to visit Quito is during the dry season, which runs from December to May.
- Be sure to pack comfortable shoes that are appropriate for walking.
- Bring a camera to capture all of your memories.
- Be sure to book your accommodations and activities in advance, especially if you are traveling during peak season.
- Learn a few basic Spanish phrases, as English is not widely spoken in Quito.
- Be respectful of the environment and the local culture.
To learn more about Quito, please visit the following link.