Formally and historically known as San Francisco de Quito, the city of
Quito is the capital of Ecuador. It is the highest official capital city in
the world (because it is elevation of 9350 feet above sea level) and is
also the national capital that is located closest to the equator. Quito
exerts a massive historical worth to itself because is built over the ruins
of the legendary Inca civilization. You should visit here to admire its
profound historical and cultural identity and its colonial past that has
beautifully translated into one of the world’s best colonial city centre.
Things to do in Quito
Basílica del Voto Nacional (or Basilica of the National Vow)
Located in historic center of Quito, the Basilica of the National Vow is
the largest neo-Gothic basilica in North and South America. It was built
sometime in late-19th century. A subject of both veneration and
architectural excellence, it is 460-feet long, 115-feet wide, and has a
98-feet high sanctuary.
Iglesia y Monasterio de San Francisco (or Church and Monastery of St.
Francis)
Founded in 1534, the Church and Monastery of St. Francis is a 16th-century
Roman Catholic complex in Quito. It belongs to the largest architectural
group of structures in the entire span of colonial Latin America. It has
braved through earthquakes and was affected by prevailing architectural
trends from the day of its founding until its completion in 1680 AD.
La Iglesia de la Companía de Jesus (or Church of the Society of Jesus)
IF you are looking for a church that combines the two distinct attributes
of history and architecture, you should pay a visit to the Church of the
Society of Jesus. It stands as one of the best examples of Latin American
Baroque architecture in the country and its ornate interiors feature works
of gold leaf, wood carvings and gilded plaster. This famous church was
built to mark the watershed moment of the arrival of Jesuit priests to
Quito in July 1586.
Best Time to Visit Quito
Summer and winter seasons, the months from June to August, and then from
December and January are the best to book your flights from Fort Lauderdale
to Quito. Book your flights from FLL to UIO during this time of the year to
enjoy famous cultural events like Simon Bolívar Day (July 24), National
Independence Day (Aug 10), Christmas Day (Dec 25) and New Year
celebrations. It is advised to book Quito flights in advance to avoid
paying more during peak season.