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Metropolitan Cathedral of Quito

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Metropolitan Cathedral of Quito (Ecuador)

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The Metropolitan Cathedral of Quito is one of the oldest cathedrals in South America, located on the flank of the Plaza de la Independencia in the city's historic core. Its construction began in 1562 on the site of a humble adobe chapel and continued over several centuries, leading to a unique blend of architectural styles. Visitors can observe Gothic-Mudejar influences alongside Baroque and Neoclassical elements. The cathedral suffered significant structural damage during the earthquakes of 1755, 1797, and 1859, but was meticulously restored each time. It serves as the final resting place for several national figures, most notably the independence hero Marshal Antonio José de Sucre. The interior is a museum of the Quito School of Art, featuring exquisite carvings and paintings by masters like Caspicara. Its white-washed walls and iconic green-tiled domes are hallmark features of Quito's colonial skyline. As the seat of the Archdiocese, it remains a vital symbol of religious authority and national heritage.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jul–Sep.

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Rain mm139143176177123583425387690100

📋 Practical info

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Visiting
The Metropolitan Cathedral of Quito on Plaza Grande is an impressive building typically open for visits during the day. The interior with its white facade and colonial art is open to the public.
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Typical hours
The cathedral typically opens at 9:00 AM and closes at 6:00 PM, with a lunch break. On Sundays and holidays, hours may differ; it is recommended to check locally.
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Photography
Indoor photography is allowed but without flash to protect delicate colonial paintings. Avoid taking pictures during mass to not disturb worshippers.
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Time needed
A visit to the cathedral takes about 30 to 45 minutes to see the main artworks. For a more thorough exploration including the museum, allow an hour.
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Combine with
The cathedral is on Plaza Grande, Quito's main square, surrounded by other historic buildings like the Presidential Palace. Combine your visit with a walk through the old town, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
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Getting there
The cathedral is in the historic center, best explored on foot. Public buses stop nearby, and taxis are plentiful; parking in the old town is difficult.
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Insider tip
Visit the cathedral in the late morning when the light highlights the white facade beautifully. Take the opportunity to also visit the surrounding museums and churches in the old town.

Geography

Coordinates
-0.22010, -78.51270

Facts

  • Started in 1562, making it one of the oldest cathedrals in the Americas.
  • Contains the mausoleum of the independence leader Antonio José de Sucre.
  • Features a mix of Gothic-Mudejar, Baroque, and Neoclassical styles.
  • Survived major earthquakes in 1755, 1797, and 1859.
  • The domes are famously decorated with green glazed tiles.
  • Home to masterpieces by Caspicara and other Quito School artists.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Palacio de CarondeletPalacio de Carondelet<1 km · SExplore →
La Mariscal Artisanal MarketLa Mariscal Artisanal Market2 km · NExplore →
Temple of the FatherlandTemple of the Fatherland2 km · SExplore →
Rodrigo Paz Delgado StadiumRodrigo Paz Delgado Stadium4 km · NEExplore →
Santuario de GuápuloSantuario de Guápulo4 km · NExplore →
Pululahua CraterPululahua Crater6 km · EExplore →
PasochoaPasochoa7 km · NWExplore →
SangolquíSangolquí8 km · NExplore →

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Sights in the town Metropolitan Cathedral of Quito (10)

Museo Alberto Mena Caamaño🏛 museum

Museum in Quito, Ecuador, featuring art and historical collections.

Catedral Metropolitana Quito

Catholic cathedral in Quito, Ecuador, located on Independence Square.

La Iglesia de El Sagrario

Colonial-era church in Quito, Pichincha, Ecuador.

Plaza de la Independencia🌳 park

Central square in Quito, Ecuador, surrounded by historic buildings.

Monumento a la Independencia

Monument in Ecuador commemorating the country's independence.

Museo de la Catedral🏛 museum

Museum inside Quito's cathedral displaying religious art.

Iglesia Católica de la Inmaculada Concepción

Catholic church of the Immaculate Conception in Quito.

Church of the Society of Jesus

Jesuit church in Quito, Ecuador, known for its ornate facade.

Municipio de Quito

City hall of Quito, Ecuador, a palace on Independence Square.

Museo Numismático🏛 museum

Coin museum in Quito with exhibits on Ecuador's monetary history.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Is the cathedral one of the oldest in South America?
Yes, it was built in the 16th century and is the oldest cathedral in Ecuador.
Can you go up to the cathedral roof?
For a small fee, you can climb to the domes and enjoy the view.
Is there a museum in the cathedral?
Yes, it houses religious artworks and the tomb of Antonio José de Sucre.
How much is the entrance fee?
Entrance for tourists costs about 4 USD (roof access is extra).
Is photography allowed inside?
Photography is usually restricted or prohibited, especially during mass.
Metropolitan Cathedral of Quito: where is it located?
Metropolitan Cathedral of Quito is located in Ecuador.
Metropolitan Cathedral of Quito: what is there to see?
Highlights include Museo Alberto Mena Caamaño, Catedral Metropolitana Quito, La Iglesia de El Sagrario.
Metropolitan Cathedral of Quito: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul, Sep.
Metropolitan Cathedral of Quito: why is it worth visiting?
The Metropolitan Cathedral of Quito is one of the oldest cathedrals in South America, located on the flank of the Plaza de la Independencia in the city's historic core.
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Nearby cities

Quito — Metropolitan Cathedral of Quito (Ecuador)
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The high-altitude capital of Ecuador, known for its well-preserved colonial historic center.
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Archidona — Metropolitan Cathedral of Quito (Ecuador)
Archidona
Archidona is a historic colonial town in the Amazon, surrounded by spectacular stalactite caves and rich Kichwa culture.
Sangolquí — Metropolitan Cathedral of Quito (Ecuador)
Sangolquí
A quiet suburb of Quito, famous for its traditional pork dish Hornado.
Saquisilí — Metropolitan Cathedral of Quito (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

Independence Monument — Metropolitan Cathedral of Quito (Ecuador)
Independence Monument
A historic column monument in the heart of Plaza Grande in Quito, honoring the first cry of independence.
Sucre National Theater — Metropolitan Cathedral of Quito (Ecuador)
Sucre National Theater
The oldest and most prestigious opera house in Quito, housed in a magnificent neoclassical building.
Virgin of El Panecillo — Metropolitan Cathedral of Quito (Ecuador)
Virgin of El Panecillo
A giant aluminum statue on a hilltop that watches over the entire city of Quito.
Quito Cable Car — Metropolitan Cathedral of Quito (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.
La Mariscal Artisanal Market — Metropolitan Cathedral of Quito (Ecuador)
La Mariscal Artisanal Market
A vibrant market in Quito where local artisans sell colorful textiles, jewelry, and traditional souvenirs.
Temple of the Fatherland — Metropolitan Cathedral of Quito (Ecuador)
Temple of the Fatherland
A massive museum and monument on the slopes of Pichincha, where the decisive battle for Ecuador's independence took place.
Rodrigo Paz Delgado Stadium — Metropolitan Cathedral of Quito (Ecuador)
Rodrigo Paz Delgado Stadium
This modern stadium, colloquially called Casa Blanca, is home to LDU Quito and often hosts the national team.
Atahualpa Olympic Stadium — Metropolitan Cathedral of Quito (Ecuador)
Atahualpa Olympic Stadium
The traditional sports stadium in the heart of Quito, which witnessed historical triumphs of the Ecuadorian national football team.

More places

Palacio de Carondelet — Metropolitan Cathedral of Quito (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 — Metropolitan Cathedral of Quito (Ecuador)
Monasterio de Santa Catalina de Siena
A historic monastery in Quito offering a glimpse into colonial monastic life.
Iglesia de Santo Domingo — Metropolitan Cathedral of Quito (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 — Metropolitan Cathedral of Quito (Ecuador)
La Compañía de Jesús
A magnificent Jesuit church in Quito, famous for its main nave completely decorated with gold leaf.
Convento de San Agustín — Metropolitan Cathedral of Quito (Ecuador)
Convento de San Agustín
A significant colonial convent in Quito where Ecuador's declaration of independence was signed.
Iglesia de San Francisco — Metropolitan Cathedral of Quito (Ecuador)
Iglesia de San Francisco
A massive Catholic complex in Quito and the largest architectural ensemble among the historical centers in the Americas.
Iglesia de la Merced — Metropolitan Cathedral of Quito (Ecuador)
Iglesia de la Merced
A historic Catholic church in Quito, known for its tall white tower and Baroque art.
Basílica del Voto Nacional — Metropolitan Cathedral of Quito (Ecuador)
Basílica del Voto Nacional
A monumental neo-Gothic basilica in Quito, the largest of its kind in South America.