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Virgin of El Panecillo
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Landmark
The Virgin of El Panecillo is a monumental aluminum statue located on the hill of the same name in Quito and is considered one of Ecuador's most distinctive landmarks. With a total height of 41 meters (including the 11-meter pedestal), it overlooks the city's historic center. The statue was completed in 1976 and is the work of Spanish artist Agustín de la Herrán Matorras. It is made of over 7,000 individual aluminum pieces, making it the largest aluminum statue in the world. The design was inspired by the famous 'Virgin of Quito,' an 18th-century sculpture by Bernardo de Legarda depicting Mary with wings and a chain binding a dragon. The hill itself, El Panecillo, stands at an altitude of about 3,000 meters above sea level and served as a religious site for the Incas. Visitors can enter the base, which houses a small museum, and enjoy a spectacular 360-degree view of Quito from the observation platform. At night, the statue is brightly illuminated and visible from almost anywhere in the city.
- Location: Ecuador
- Top sights: Panecillo · Su Marmoleria Espiritu Santo · Museo Interactivo de Ciencias
- 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
The Virgin statue on El Panecillo is open to the public, and you can enter the base. The observation platform has a 360-degree panoramic view of Quito.
Typical hours
The grounds are typically open daily from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with entry to the base closing around 5:30 PM. National holidays may have different hours.
Photography
Photography is allowed throughout the site, both of the statue and the view. Drone footage requires a permit; do not fly without one.
Time needed
Allow about one hour for the visit, including the climb and taking in the view. Those exploring the surrounding area may spend up to an hour and a half.
Combine with
Combine your visit with Quito's historic center, Plaza de la Independencia, and La Compañía de Jesús church. The TelefériQo cable car up Pichincha is also a great addition.
Getting there
El Panecillo hill is south of central Quito. Take a taxi from the historic center (short ride) or catch the “El Panecillo” bus line.
Insider tip
Visit in the morning for the clearest views over the city. Be aware of pickpockets; keep valuables secured.
Geography
Facts
- Total height: 41 meters
- Material: 7,000 aluminum pieces
- Completed in the year 1976
- Artist: Agustín de la Herrán Matorras
- Tallest aluminum statue in the world
- The base houses a museum
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
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Sights in the town Virgin of El Panecillo (14)
Museo Interactivo de Ciencias🏛 museum
An interactive science museum near El Panecillo housed in a repurposed historic textile factory.
🌐 museo-ciencia.gob.ec🕒 We-Su 09:00-17:00
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Can you go inside the statue?
Yes, there is a museum and an observation deck inside.
How do you get to the top?
Best by taxi or bus; walking up is not recommended for safety reasons.
What is the statue made of?
It is made of more than 7,000 aluminum plates.
What does it represent?
A winged Virgin, based on the 'Virgin of Quito' sculpture.
How high is the hill?
The hill is at about 3,000 meters above sea level.
Virgin of El Panecillo: where is it located?
Virgin of El Panecillo is located in Ecuador.
Virgin of El Panecillo: what is there to see?
Highlights include Panecillo, Su Marmoleria Espiritu Santo, Museo Interactivo de Ciencias.
Virgin of El Panecillo: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul, Sep.
Virgin of El Panecillo: why is it worth visiting?
The Virgin of El Panecillo is a monumental aluminum statue located on the hill of the same name in Quito and is considered one of Ecuador's most distinctive landmarks.
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