Monasterio de San Francisco

Location:
Cuenca 477 and Sucre in La Plaza de San Francisco
Centro Histórico, Quito, Ecuador

Historical Building

V!VA User‘s Description

The bored-looking stone chap also in the northern corner of the Plaza de San Francisco is Franciscan missionary Joedco Ricke, who set to work in the Monastery de San Francisco soon after the foundation of Quito in 1534. It took him and his team 70 years to complete, but it remains Quito’s largest colonial structure, although much of it has been destroyed and rebuilt over the years. However, its gold interior retains its grand and imposing feel and it's certainly worth a visit, especially since admission is free.

Some of the Monastery’s most precious and delicate relics have been re-housed in the Museo Franciscano. Much of the artwork on display dates back to the early 1600s, and the museum also houses one of the best collections of indigenous art in the city. The furniture, with its intricate detail and encrusted with pearls, is another highlight. The building is interesting too, with its long, sweeping corridors and hidden internal courtyards. The entrance to the museum is just to the right of the main monastery door.

Open Hours from:Monday - Saturday, 9 a.m. - 6 p.m., Sunday, 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Contact Information:
Phone: 593-2-228-1124 / 593-2-228 2545