La Compañía

Location:
Calle García Moreno, one block south of Plaza de la Independencia.
Centro Histórico, Quito, Ecuador

Historical Building

By Katie Tibbetts

Carved entirely out of volcanic stone, the ornate Baroque façade of this Jesuit church is probably the most exquisitely executed in Quito. From the arresting outside, walk inside and you’ll be awed by the sculptured interior, shimmering beneath a reported seven tones of gold leaf. A stunning display of art and architecture, appointed with a community of cherubs, angels and saints, keeps the eyes busy as the feet shuffle between the skyward stretching Corinthian pillars, soaring arches and carefully decorated cornices. Jesuits began work on the church in 1605, but it wasn’t complete until 1765 (a lucky coincidence considering the Spanish expelled the order just two years later). Today, some of the most important, and impressive artifacts to grace the interior are housed in the vaults of the Banco Central; one such piece is the stunning emerald-framed painting of the Virgin Dolorosa.

Travel Tips: Monday-Saturday 10:00-13:00, Monday-Friday 14:00-17:00.

Price Description: Entrance: $1

Travel Skills: None