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Palacio de Carondelet
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Historical site
The Palacio de Carondelet is the official seat of the government of the Republic of Ecuador, located in the historic center of Quito on the Plaza de la Independencia. The building was named in honor of Baron Luis Héctor de Carondelet, who served as President of the Real Audiencia de Quito between 1799 and 1807 and commissioned the renovation of the original structure. The palace is characterized by its neoclassical facade featuring a prominent 19th-century colonnade completed during the presidency of Gabriel García Moreno. Inside, the complex houses ornate halls used for official ceremonies and a significant collection of artworks from the Quito School. A notable feature is the presidential balcony, from which speeches to the public are traditionally delivered. Since 2007, a portion of the palace has functioned as a museum open to the public, displaying state gifts and historical artifacts. The architecture combines Spanish colonial elements with European neoclassical influences from the late 18th century.
- Location: Ecuador
- Top sights: Centro Comercial La Merced · Museo Alberto Mena Caamaño · Convento Máximo de La Merced
- Nearby: Sangolquí (8 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul–Sep.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 17 | 17 | 18 | 18 | 18 | 18 | 17 | 18 | 18 | 17 | 17 | 17 |
| Rain mm | 139 | 143 | 176 | 177 | 123 | 58 | 34 | 25 | 38 | 76 | 90 | 100 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
Palacio de Carondelet is the seat of government and only partially open to the public, usually via guided tours. The exterior can be viewed from the square at any time.
Typical hours
Guided tours typically run on specific weekdays, often in the morning. It is advisable to check online for current visiting times beforehand.
Photography
Photography is allowed outside and on the forecourt. Inside, photos are often permitted during the tour, but without flash and only in certain areas.
Time needed
The guided tour usually lasts about 45 minutes to an hour. For viewing the exterior and the square, 20 minutes is enough.
Combine with
Visit the nearby Quito Cathedral and Plaza Grande. The Church of La Compañía with its gilded interior is just a few minutes away on foot.
Getting there
The palace is located on Quito's central square, Plaza de la Independencia. It is easily reachable on foot from the historic center; buses and taxis stop nearby.
Insider tip
Book the tour early as spots are limited. Combine your visit with breakfast on Plaza Grande for an authentic experience.
Geography
Facts
- 1799 marks the start of the renovation under Baron de Carondelet
- 1807 was the final year of Carondelet's presidency in Quito
- 19th century saw the completion of the iconic facade colonnade
- 2007 was the year the palace opened as a public museum
- 1978 was when it became a UNESCO World Heritage site
- 10th of August 1809 was the first cry for independence here
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
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Sights in the town Palacio de Carondelet (5)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Can you visit the Presidential Palace?
Yes, there are free guided tours for which you must register in advance.
Is an ID required?
Yes, a valid passport or ID is mandatory for entry.
Is photography allowed inside?
Photography is allowed in designated areas without flash.
How long is the tour?
A guided tour usually lasts about 45 to 60 minutes.
Is there a change of guard ceremony?
Yes, every Tuesday at 11:00 AM there is a formal change of guard ceremony.
Palacio de Carondelet: where is it located?
Palacio de Carondelet is located in Ecuador.
Palacio de Carondelet: what is there to see?
Highlights include Centro Comercial La Merced, Museo Alberto Mena Caamaño, Convento Máximo de La Merced.
Palacio de Carondelet: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul, Sep.
Palacio de Carondelet: why is it worth visiting?
The Palacio de Carondelet is the official seat of the government of the Republic of Ecuador, located in the historic center of Quito on the Plaza de la Independencia.
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