This enormous complex stands on nearly two city blocks and includes cloisters, a convent, and a shaded arcade that runs along the length of the public square. Look for indigenous symbols woven into the church’s design and a Moorish influence in the gold-leaf interior. Among the staggering 3,500 works of art inside are paintings from the famed Quito School.
Walking tours include the church, the Presidential Palace, La Compañía Church, and other old town landmarks. If you want to explore a bit farther, tack on a trek to Quilotoa Crater Lagoon to hike around the dormant volcano, and stop at Andean market towns such as Saquisili, Pujili, and Tigua.
San Francisco Church is located at San Francisco Plaza at the corner of Cuenca and Sucre in the historic center of Quito, just steps away from the Presidential Palace. The church is easily accessible from most monuments and establishments in the old town.
The church is open daily, with hours varying according to the day and typically closed between noon and 3pm. Come late November to early December for Fiestas de Quito, a festival commemorating the founding of the city, with bullfighting, lively flamenco dancing, and flamboyant parades and processions.
Constructed in the 16th century in the old town of Quito, San Francisco Church has a rich and fascinating history. Thousands of years ago, an Inca temple stood on the site. A year after the arrival of the Spanish conquistadors, they built the church on top of the temple after looting. Outside the pavement was designed to slope towards the entrance, a design decision that forced visitors to naturally bow down their heads in respect.