Catholic tradition in Quito - Colonial & Historical Churches

A complete traveler’s destination, Quito is one of the principal cities of Ecuador.

Churches in Quito Ecuador There is a great wealth of Catholic tradition Colonial & Historical Churches in Quito, Ecuador. Located high in the Andes Mountains this city is the country’s political center and one the oldest capital in South America. Known for its educational institutions for higher education, the national library which was founded in 1792 and contains more than 70000 books, Quito also is home to many archaeological museums including the national museum of fine arts which is located in the Sucre Theater Building.

One of the top historical and cultural monuments is the museum of Colonial Art. Most of the important Catholic tradition Colonial & Historical Churches in Quito, Ecuador are displayed in The Franciscan and Santo Domingo museums, which are also considered as some of the biggest attractions of Quito. This city is known for its great architectural, historical and art history education and students here appreciate the opportunities this city provides in the way of training opportunities.

Quito dates back to the first millennium when it was occupied by the Quitu tribe. This tribe then also established a commercial center. It is however sad to note that in the early 1500s this city was burnt to the ground by the Incas to prevent it from being taken over by the Spanish. This destroyed the very history on which the city was established.

The Catholic tradition Colonial & Historical Churches in Quito, Ecuador started with the establishment of the first church called El Belen, which was built before the city was officially founded. This marked the establishment of the Catholic religion in Quito. In 1535 saw the establishment of the San Francisco Convent, The first of 20 churches and convents to be built during the colonial period.

Quito grew a city of 10,000 inhabitants by 1809. This was nearly after 300 years of colonization. A political movement begun that aimed for political independence from Spain. This movement was started in 1809 also in the same year a plan for the government was started that put Juan Pio Montufar as the president along with various political figures in governmental positions. The Spanish managed to crush this initial movement on 2 August 1810 by killing all the leaders of the uprising along with more than 200 inhabitants of the city.

The religion practiced by most people in Quito today is Catholicism. The city of Quito is a vibrant and lively although an ancient city that shows visible marks from its colonial era. The Catholic tradition Colonial & Historical Churches in Quito, Ecuador remained intact in spite of their turbulent history and has been attracting thousands of visitors each year.

Bookmarking links

Latin America & Caribbean Travel Guides:

Site menu:

Catholic tradition in Quito - Colonial & Historical Churches

A complete traveler’s destination, Quito is one of the principal cities of Ecuador.