In this article, I will explain how and why you should visit Ecuador’s capital and one of its most historically significant and naturally stunning places: Quito. This is a beautiful city located at the high point of the Andes where most parts have been listed under UNESCO due to cultural endowment that features colonial buildings, good plazas, and energetic locals. Located in the map of Quito is its historic center which is also the central region of intricate attractions to visit and activities to indulge in. Critics, lovers of architecture, people interested in history tours, and any passionate traveler will find many fascinating things to do in Quito historical part of the city.
Casa Gangotena is one of the most extraordinary hotels in Quito, especially for everyone with an interest and willingness to explore the colorful cultural and historical background of the city. This is a luxury boutique hotel in the historic city center, but at the same time, it’s convenient to turn Quito’s most cherished sights into the hotel’s landmarks.
1. Plaza Grande (Independence Square)
Any tourist visiting Quito’s historical district must make a detour to the Plaza Grande and this is because it is both the political and historic nucleus of Ecuador. Connected to the modern city through the creation of Independence Plaza, this lively plaza is neighbored by historically significant buildings including the Presidential Palace, Metropolitan Cathedral, and the Archbishop’s Palace. Take a while to look at the nice buildings which were shaped in colonial style, or take a seat on a bench and watch people.
It is just 400 meters away from our hotel Casa Gangotena and because of this, it is an excellent starting point for your tour around Quito.
2. La Compañía de Jesús
La Compañía de Jesús is listed as one of the most stunning churches in Latin America and well deserved due to great examples of the Baroque style. The building was constructed a little over 160 years ago and has a stunning gold leaf interior with delicate features. The Church exterior had a touch of Spanish colonial architecture with imagery from the pre-Hispanic period combined with new world style.
It is conveniently located near Casa Gangotena so you can visit here before heading to Casa Gangotena before the crowds show up, or while waiting for a table in the restaurant you can wander around and take lots of pictures of this beautiful building.
3. San Francisco Church and Plaza
Second, the sight of the things to do in Quito is the San Francisco Church, which is one of the oldest and most important religious buildings in the city. The nearby San Francisco’s Square is also a historical landmark and was actually for a long time the place of commerce and social interactions. The exterior of the church looks quite majestic and the interior is decorated with baroque altars; however, the best is in the San Francisco Museum seceded in religious art.
This mausoleum is situated right across the street from Casa Gangotena so you may venture into this fascinating site before returning to the plush confines of your hotel.
4. El Panecillo and La Virgen de Quito
But if you are interested in experiencing broad views of Quito, then Panecillo is the place for you. This hill is situated to the south of the old town, and tourists will be able to find the giant statue of the La Virgen de Quito which is a large sculpture made of aluminum. It is only a few stairs, but after climbing it, you get a stunning view of the surrounding hills and the stunning skyline of Cuenca. You will be able to have a better look at Quito’s geographical location and colonial design from there.
Regardless of whether you just take a taxi from Casa Gangotena and ride for 10 minutes or book a guided tour, the view from El Panecillo is impressive.
5. Calle La Ronda
If you are in a mood for something brighter and more artistry then you should go to Calle La Ronda. This is a picturesque, largely cobbled street with a relatively small number of outlets for arts, crafts, and cafes. At night La Ronda opens up with music bands, delicious Ecuadorian beer, street performances, and local dishes. Certainly, it turned out to be the right place for picking up the imagery of the local life and having fun at night in Quito.
Being an inn, this makes Casa Gangotena an excellent starting point to walk through La Ronda at any time of the day or night.
6. Casa del Alabado Museum
Lovers of history and artwork will be quite interested in visiting Casa del Alabado Museum. Located in an exquisitely renovated 17th-century mansion, this museum displays an outstanding collection of pre-Columbian sculptures and artifacts and gives visitors a chance to get acquainted with the history of those civilizations. This is a historic-themed art gallery that focuses on the Indigenous people of Ecuador through well-displayed history, artifacts, and art pieces.
Located a two-minute walk from Casa Gangotena, this museum is more tranquil than others in Quito and offers a more contemplative atmosphere after visiting more attractions in Quito.
7. Basilica del Voto Nacional
As seen in the map the Basilica del Voto Nacional is not actually in the historic district, however, it is very close and a visit should be considered. This is one of the tallest neo-Gothic constructions in the Americas and the ornamental gargoyles depict wildlife seen in Ecuadorian lands unlike ‘standard’ Gothic who’s and what’s. There for the daring, an opportunity to climb the towers of the basilica gives vantage views of the city and the Andes Mountain ranges.
Located ten minutes from Casa Gangotena by taxi, the Basilica is a church that architectural lovers and those who like huge panoramic views should visit.
8. Casa Gangotena: The Ultimate Accommodation
Ideal for getting to know what this city of immense colonial and artistic charm holds for visitors after a day of discovering Quito’s historic center. This little hotel, which is a colonial house, provides all the amenities of a superior-class hotel and the most convenient location. When it comes to accommodations, Casa Gangotena can truly be called a boutique hotel since the services offered are top-notch, and the guest rooms are lovely to look at, and with first-class dining, excellent service, Casa Gangotena is ideal for travelers who are interested in history and comfort at the same time. The fact that the hotel is near the main sights of the city, means that here, guests can always find themselves in the thick of things while its quiet atmosphere gives the guests a much-needed rest from the noise and clamor of the outside world.
Conclusion
Some of the main interesting and culturally significant sights can be found here: Ecuador’s capital city of Quito is a bright example of a city with a well-preserved historic center where you will find a vast number of interesting cultural and historical sites, as well as stunning architecture. From the magnificent churches to the boisterous open areas that are the plazas, there is much to look at and do. Furthermore, with Casa Gangotena as your accredited hotel, you will be in a vantage point to explore the best of Quito while you indulge in comfort combined with elegance in the middle of the city. Whether you have decided to visit Quito for the first time, or you planning to set foot in this city for the second or third time, the historic center will not leave you indifferent.