Metropolitan Cathedral

The Metropolitan Cathedral of Quito

The Metropolitan Cathedral is one of the oldest and most important religious buildings of Quito, on the Plaza Grande. The Quito audio-guided tour stops here, with respect, to evoke this sanctuary raised shortly after the founding of the city.

A sanctuary of the beginnings of the city

Built from the sixteenth century, just after the founding of Quito, the Metropolitan Cathedral is one of the oldest in South America. Bordering Plaza de la Independencia, it blends several styles over its reconstructions and holds a rich heritage, including works of the Quito school, a famous colonial artistic movement. A place of worship and memory, it keeps the graves of significant figures of the history of the country.

What to see

You admire the architecture blending several styles, the rich heritage and the works of the Quito school, in an atmosphere of contemplation, on the Plaza Grande. The Metropolitan Cathedral is one of the oldest sanctuaries in South America. It is a major stop to be discovered with respect.

Practical information

The Metropolitan Cathedral lies on Plaza de la Independencia, in the heart of the historic centre of Quito, reachable on foot. A working place of worship, it can be visited with respect for services; the visit may have a fee and follow its own hours, which vary. It is best to check the arrangements before coming and to respect the sacred character of the place.

When was the cathedral of Quito built?

From the sixteenth century, just after the founding of the city; it is one of the oldest cathedrals in South America, on the Plaza Grande.

Where is the Metropolitan Cathedral of Quito?

On Plaza de la Independencia, in the heart of the historic centre of Quito.