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Convento de San Agustín
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Historical site
The Convento de San Agustín in Quito is a prime example of 16th and 17th-century colonial architecture in Ecuador. Construction of the monastery began around 1580 based on designs by the famous architect Francisco Becerra and was largely completed by 1650. The convent holds immense historical significance, as its Chapter House was the site where the Declaration of Independence of Quito was signed on August 10, 1809, marking the start of the liberation movement in Ecuador. The complex features a magnificent cloister with carved woodwork and a significant series of paintings by artist Miguel de Santiago depicting the life of Saint Augustine. Its architecture combines Spanish Renaissance elements with the local Baroque of the Quito School. The church's massive bell tower is a landmark of the city's skyline and has survived several major earthquakes. Today, the monastery also houses a museum preserving religious art treasures and historical documents from the city's founding era.
- Location: Ecuador
- Top sights: Auditorio Raúl Garzón · Casa San Marcos · Monseñor Federico González Suárez
- Nearby: Sangolquí (7 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul–Sep.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 17 | 17 | 18 | 18 | 18 | 18 | 17 | 18 | 18 | 17 | 17 | 17 |
| Rain mm | 139 | 143 | 176 | 177 | 123 | 58 | 34 | 25 | 38 | 76 | 90 | 100 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The Convento de San Agustín in Quito is open to the public as a museum and active church. You can see the Sala Capitular where Ecuador's declaration of independence was signed.
Typical hours
The convent is typically open Tuesday to Sunday from 9am to 6pm. Closed on Mondays and certain holidays.
Photography
Photography is allowed in the museum rooms, but flash is prohibited to preserve the artworks. The cloister and courtyard are photogenic.
Time needed
A guided tour takes about 1 hour. Allow extra time to view the independence-related exhibits.
Combine with
Combine with the nearby Plaza de la Independencia and the Cathedral of Quito. The historic center is full of colonial churches.
Getting there
Located in the historic center of Quito, easily walkable from the main square. Use the Trolebus to get to the area.
Insider tip
Visit during the morning to avoid crowds. The Sala Capitular often has an audio guide that explains the signing of the independence document.
Geography
Facts
- 1580 was the start of construction under Francisco Becerra
- 1650 marks the approximate completion of the complex
- 1809 was the year independence was signed in the Chapter House
- 40 paintings by Miguel de Santiago adorn the cloister
- 22 meters is the height of the church's bell tower
- August 10th is the key historical date associated with the site
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Convento de San Agustín (11)
USAME🎭 culture
A bustling marketplace offering various goods in the convento-de-san-agustin-history-v2 area.
🌐 trendyglobalfashion.com🕒 Mo-Sa 08:00-18:00
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is the Chapter House?
A historic room where the declaration of independence was signed.
Are there artworks there?
Yes, there are significant 17th-century paintings by Miguel de Santiago.
When can you visit the convent?
Usually Monday to Friday 09:00 AM to 05:00 PM and Saturday mornings.
Where is San Agustín located?
In the historic center of Quito, at the corner of Chile and Guayaquil streets.
Is there an entry fee?
Entry to the museum area costs about 2-3 USD.
Convento de San Agustín: where is it located?
Convento de San Agustín is located in Ecuador.
Convento de San Agustín: what is there to see?
Highlights include Auditorio Raúl Garzón, Casa San Marcos, Monseñor Federico González Suárez.
Convento de San Agustín: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul, Sep.
Convento de San Agustín: why is it worth visiting?
The Convento de San Agustín in Quito is a prime example of 16th and 17th-century colonial architecture in Ecuador.
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