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Capilla del Hombre

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Historical site
—°14
Capilla del Hombre (Ecuador)

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The Capilla del Hombre (Chapel of Man) in Quito is a monumental art complex and a deeply symbolic landmark created by Ecuador's most renowned artist, Oswaldo Guayasamín. Located in the Bellavista neighborhood, the building is not a religious chapel but a spiritual space dedicated to the history, suffering, and resilience of the Latin American people. Its architecture is heavily influenced by pre-Columbian Inca temples, featuring a massive, fortress-like structure that blends seamlessly with the surrounding Andean peaks. Inside, the cavernous halls display some of Guayasamín's most powerful large-scale murals, depicting human tragedy and the undying quest for freedom and justice. A focal point of the chapel is the 'Eternal Flame', burning in tribute to those who have fought for peace and human rights across the continent. The site also includes the artist's former home and studio, offering a comprehensive look at his life's work. With its commanding views over the city of Quito and the Pichincha volcano, the Capilla del Hombre serves as a profound cultural lighthouse for the entire region.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jul–Sep.

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Avg °C171718181818171818171717
Rain mm139143176177123583425387690100

📋 Practical info

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Visiting
The Capilla del Hombre is a monumental art complex that can be visited during its stated opening hours. The exhibition halls are open to the public.
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Typical hours
Typically open Tuesday to Sunday from about 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, closed on Mondays. Holiday hours may vary; please check in advance.
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Photography
Photography without flash is allowed in the exhibition halls. For professional shots or video, a permit from the museum is required.
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Time needed
Allow about 1.5 to 2 hours for the permanent and temporary exhibitions. Art enthusiasts should plan for extra time.
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Combine with
The museum is located in Quito's historic center near Plaza San Francisco. Combine the visit with San Francisco Church and the Franciscan Museum.
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Getting there
Quito's center is well reachable by bus or taxi. Parking in the old town is limited, so public transport is recommended.
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Insider tip
Visit the museum on a weekday to avoid crowds. The panoramic view from the upper floor over Quito is wide-open.

Geography

Coordinates
-0.18780, -78.47530

Facts

  • Opened in 1995.
  • Architect: Oswaldo Guayasamín.
  • Exhibition area: 4,000 m².
  • Houses works by Guayasamín.
  • Domed building.
  • Located in Bellavista neighborhood.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Atahualpa Olympic StadiumAtahualpa Olympic Stadium<1 km · SEExplore →
Rodrigo Paz Delgado StadiumRodrigo Paz Delgado Stadium2 km · SEExplore →
La Mariscal Artisanal MarketLa Mariscal Artisanal Market2 km · SExplore →
Convento de San AgustínConvento de San Agustín4 km · SExplore →
SangolquíSangolquí4 km · NWExplore →
Unasur BuildingUnasur Building5 km · NEExplore →
Pululahua CraterPululahua Crater6 km · SEExplore →
Temple of the FatherlandTemple of the Fatherland6 km · SExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

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Sights in the town Capilla del Hombre (14)

Monumento al Atleta Jefferson Pérez🏺 historical

The monument near the Capilla del Hombre commemorates Jefferson Pérez, the Ecuadorian race walker who won Olympic gold.

Monumento a Ecuador🏺 historical

This public monument stands as a symbolic representation of the nation of Ecuador in the historic Capilla del Hombre area.

León 2🏺 historical

Known as León 2, this sculpted lion statue forms part of the monumental outdoor decor in the district.

Food Container Restaurants📍 landmark

This modern open-air dining attraction features several eateries built from repurposed shipping containers.

Bellavista viewpoint🌿 nature

Situated in the elevated Bellavista neighborhood, this viewpoint has sweeping panoramic vistas over the urban valleys of Quito.

Teatro William Shakespear🎭 culture

This local theatre venue hosts a variety of dramatic performances and plays inspired by classical traditions.

The Collectors Club🏛 museum

A specialized gallery space where enthusiasts display curated collections of unique art and vintage memorabilia.

🕒 Tu-Fr 10:00-18:00; Sa-Su 12:00-16:00

Marsuarte🏛 museum

This independent art gallery focuses on contemporary visual works and paintings by emerging local artists.

Museo Capilla del Hombre🏛 museum

Designed by Oswaldo Guayasamín, this monumental art museum is a tribute to the human spirit and Latin American history.

Mezquita Khaled Ibn Al Waleed📍 landmark

This Islamic place of worship features a distinct minaret and serves the local Muslim community for daily prayers.

🕒 24/7

Iglesia Encuentro Cumbaya⛪ religious

A modern Christian worship center providing religious services and community gatherings in the Cumbaya area.

Iglesia Católica Sagrados Corazones - Bellavista📍 landmark

This Catholic parish church in Bellavista features a striking modern facade and a bright, welcoming nave.

Mercado de Bellavista🎭 culture

A bustling neighborhood market where vendors sell fresh local produce, meats, and daily necessities.

Minimarket "Banana"🎭 culture

This compact local market features a quick stop for groceries, fresh fruits, and essential everyday goods.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What is the Capilla del Hombre?
An art museum dedicated to the work of Oswaldo Guayasamín.
Where is the museum located?
In the Bellavista neighborhood, in the north of Quito.
How much is the ticket?
Entry is about 10 USD for adults (includes the artist's home).
Is photography allowed inside?
Photography is strictly prohibited inside the chapel.
How long does a visit take?
Plan for about 1.5 to 2 hours for the entire site.
Capilla del Hombre: where is it located?
Capilla del Hombre is located in Ecuador.
Capilla del Hombre: what is there to see?
Highlights include Monumento al Atleta Jefferson Pérez, Monumento a Ecuador, León 2.
Capilla del Hombre: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul, Sep.
Capilla del Hombre: why is it worth visiting?
The Capilla del Hombre (Chapel of Man) in Quito is a monumental art complex and a deeply symbolic landmark created by Ecuador's most renowned artist, Oswaldo Guayasamín.
View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →
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Nearby cities

Quito — Capilla del Hombre (Ecuador)
Quito
The high-altitude capital of Ecuador, known for its well-preserved colonial historic center.
Cayambe — Capilla del Hombre (Ecuador)
Cayambe
An agricultural city at the foot of the mighty Cayambe volcano, known for its flowers and cheeses.
Archidona — Capilla del Hombre (Ecuador)
Archidona
Archidona is a historic colonial town in the Amazon, surrounded by spectacular stalactite caves and rich Kichwa culture.
Sangolquí — Capilla del Hombre (Ecuador)
Sangolquí
A quiet suburb of Quito, famous for its traditional pork dish Hornado.
Saquisilí — Capilla del Hombre (Ecuador)
Saquisilí
Saquisilí is an authentic Andean town famous for hosting one of the most vibrant and expansive indigenous markets in Ecuador every Thursday.

History & landmarks

Atahualpa Olympic Stadium — Capilla del Hombre (Ecuador)
Atahualpa Olympic Stadium
The traditional sports stadium in the heart of Quito, which witnessed historical triumphs of the Ecuadorian national football team.
Cyclist Monument — Capilla del Hombre (Ecuador)
Cyclist Monument
A stylized sculpture at a busy intersection in Quito, dedicated to eco-friendly transportation.
Rodrigo Paz Delgado Stadium — Capilla del Hombre (Ecuador)
Rodrigo Paz Delgado Stadium
This modern stadium, colloquially called Casa Blanca, is home to LDU Quito and often hosts the national team.
La Mariscal Artisanal Market — Capilla del Hombre (Ecuador)
La Mariscal Artisanal Market
A vibrant market in Quito where local artisans sell colorful textiles, jewelry, and traditional souvenirs.
Sucre National Theater — Capilla del Hombre (Ecuador)
Sucre National Theater
The oldest and most prestigious opera house in Quito, housed in a magnificent neoclassical building.
Independence Monument — Capilla del Hombre (Ecuador)
Independence Monument
A historic column monument in the heart of Plaza Grande in Quito, honoring the first cry of independence.
Metropolitan Cathedral of Quito — Capilla del Hombre (Ecuador)
Metropolitan Cathedral of Quito
The main Catholic church of Quito, located on Plaza Grande, famous for its white facade and colonial art.
Quito Cable Car — Capilla del Hombre (Ecuador)
Quito Cable Car
One of the highest aerial lifts in the world, taking visitors from the city center up the slopes of the Pichincha Volcano.

More places

Santuario de Guápulo — Capilla del Hombre (Ecuador)
Santuario de Guápulo
One of the oldest churches in Ecuador, built in the picturesque neighborhood of Guápulo on the hillside of Quito.
Basílica del Voto Nacional — Capilla del Hombre (Ecuador)
Basílica del Voto Nacional
A monumental neo-Gothic basilica in Quito, the largest of its kind in South America.
Convento de San Agustín — Capilla del Hombre (Ecuador)
Convento de San Agustín
A significant colonial convent in Quito where Ecuador's declaration of independence was signed.
Palacio de Carondelet — Capilla del Hombre (Ecuador)
Palacio de Carondelet
The seat of government of the Republic of Ecuador in the historic center of Quito.
Monasterio de Santa Catalina de Siena — Capilla del Hombre (Ecuador)
Monasterio de Santa Catalina de Siena
A historic monastery in Quito offering a glimpse into colonial monastic life.
Iglesia de Santo Domingo — Capilla del Hombre (Ecuador)
Iglesia de Santo Domingo
A Dominican church in the heart of Quito, known for its rich Baroque interior and the plaza in front of it.
La Compañía de Jesús — Capilla del Hombre (Ecuador)
La Compañía de Jesús
A magnificent Jesuit church in Quito, famous for its main nave completely decorated with gold leaf.
Iglesia de San Francisco — Capilla del Hombre (Ecuador)
Iglesia de San Francisco
A massive Catholic complex in Quito and the largest architectural ensemble among the historical centers in the Americas.