Old Quito was among first historical towns to be declared a World Heritage Site, but it was not until recently that it would become a highly valued travel destination. In the 70s the old city heart was dilapidated, and no-one thought that in less than half a century, Ecuador's capital Quito would develop into the most splendid capital of the Latin America with great looking ancient alleys and beautifully restored historical buildings.
In the colonial days, Lima became the center of power of Hispanic colonies in South America and Quito developed into the center of religion with churches and monasteries of many Catholic ordinations competing for followers in numerous churches and monasteries. Most of them survived various powerful temblors, but by the second half of last century, many historical buildings were dilapidated. No doubt, the UNESCO denomination as World Heritage Site had contributed to the fact that all colonial structures became legally protected and owners could only make changes to their building under strict restoration codes. Now most houses have been returned to their old glory, although many serving new functions, like cafs, offices and hotels. Rich in resplendent plazas linked by narrow alleys, are permanently patrolled by police. Visitors can enjoy the colonial settings in a carefree environment without much worry about pickpockets and other petty crime. More than any other historical town in the continent, Ecuador's capital Quito most and for all is frequented by Quiteos, who visit the town in little groups of families and/or friends. Foreigners are present, but by far outnumbered by Ecuadorians who go about their business as though the own the place, and of course they do.
To fully enjoy the capital of Ecuador, you need 2 days just to get to know its highlights, much more if you ware into the details. It would probably be a good idea to take a half day's city to get oriented, but then you should go explore the city on your own, walk through the narrow walks, discover a few cafs, admire Quito at night when so many buildings are illuminated and enjoy the Quiteos who share there city with you. To them, old Quito or "Casco viejo" as Ecuadorians call old town, is a testimony to their history while uniting them with the pleasures of the 21st century.
Some of the nicest streets and squares are mainly for pedestrians and all of the old center can be best visited walking which really is the nicest way to enjoy the different plazas and monuments. The entire old city can be explored on foot in relatively brief strolls. When you feel tired, there are little cafs everywhere and prices are very modest.
With so many ravishing old churches one can't name them all, but one really stands out: The Compania Church is the most beautiful and oldest colonial monument of Quito. The interior of the church is covered with real gold and is full of statutes and late medieval paintings. Arguably, it the could be considered the most exquisite church of the Americas.
In 2008, the New York Times published a center story in its travel section, including it in the fiftythree greatest cities in the world for American travelers. Its the "Passport to Latin America" said Samantha Brown and named it the ideal hub from where to explore the continent. Ever since, Ecuador's capital has been receiving attention on television (e.g. CBN and NBC), and over the last few years, the city has seen many articles in many international magazines and newspapers, raving about the most exquisite Latin American capital.
It is not surprising that more and more tours start out in Quito, the capital of Ecuador to to then continue to destinations like Peru and other destinations that can be easily reached from Ecuador.
About the Author:
For almost four decades, Wesly Vanderhill has lived in Quito, Ecuador's capital and he shares his knowledge and high resolution pictures about churches and monasteries and other gorgeous monuments of Ecuador