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Iglesia de San Francisco
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Historical site
The Iglesia de San Francisco in Quito is one of the largest and most significant religious complexes in Latin America, often referred to as the 'Escorial of the New World.' Construction began in 1535, just weeks after the city's foundation, under the direction of the Franciscan friar Jodoco Ricke. The complex includes a magnificent church, several chapels, two monasteries, and a museum, covering an area of over three hectares. Its architecture blends various styles, from the Italian Renaissance on the facade to the ornate Baroque and Mudéjar influences in the interior. The main altar is particularly famous, being a masterpiece of the Quito School and almost entirely covered in gold leaf. The church also houses the original 'Virgin of Quito' sculpture by Bernardo de Legarda. The expansive plaza with its characteristic stairs has served as the city's central social and religious gathering place for centuries. As part of Quito's historic center, the complex has been a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1978.
- Location: Ecuador
- Top sights: Museo Franciscano · Casa del Alabado Pre-Columbian Art Museum
- Nearby: Sangolquí (8 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
Iglesia de San Francisco in Quito is a massive complex and is open to visitors. The interior with its gilded altars and rich decoration is one of the most impressive in South America.
Typical hours
The church is usually open daily, but hours may vary. A visit early in the morning is recommended to experience the place in tranquility.
Photography
Photography inside is usually allowed without flash. The gilded altars and ceiling paintings are fantastic subjects, but do not use a tripod without permission.
Time needed
Allow at least one hour for the church and the adjoining museum (Museo Franciscano). The entire complex can take up to two hours.
Combine with
The church is on Plaza San Francisco, the heart of Quito's historic center. Combine your visit with Iglesia de la Compañía and Plaza Grande.
Getting there
The historic center is easily reachable by bus or taxi. The church is about a 10-minute walk from Plaza Grande.
Insider tip
Also visit the monastery museum (Museo Franciscano), which houses an impressive collection of religious art. Admission is usually paid separately.
Geography
Facts
- 1535 marks the laying of the foundation stone
- 150 years were required to complete the entire complex
- 3 hectares is the total area covered by the site
- 1978 was the year it became a UNESCO World Heritage site
- 104 columns support the arches of the cloisters
- 1500 works of art are housed in the convent's museum
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Iglesia de San Francisco (2)
Casa del Alabado Pre-Columbian Art Museum🏛 museum
Housed in a 17th-century colonial home, this museum showcases an extensive collection of ancient pre-Columbian artifacts.
🌐 alabado.org🕒 We-Su 09:00-17:00
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
How big is the complex?
It is the largest religious complex in Latin America (the 'Escorial of the Andes').
What is the legend of Cantuña?
A man who made a deal with the devil to finish the church plaza on time.
Is there a museum?
Yes, the Pedro Gocial Museum houses significant religious art.
When are the masses?
Several masses are held daily in the mornings and evenings.
Is photography allowed inside?
In the church yes (no flash), in the museum usually not.
Iglesia de San Francisco: where is it located?
Iglesia de San Francisco is located in Ecuador.
Iglesia de San Francisco: what is there to see?
Highlights include Museo Franciscano, Casa del Alabado Pre-Columbian Art Museum.
Iglesia de San Francisco: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul, Sep.
Iglesia de San Francisco: why is it worth visiting?
The Iglesia de San Francisco in Quito is one of the largest and most significant religious complexes in Latin America, often referred to as the 'Escorial of the New World.' Construction began in 1535, just weeks after the city's foundation, under the direction of the Franciscan…
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