Sites of Interest: Old Town

Museo de la Ciudad

The museum traces the history of the city from pre-Hispanic times through the colonial era and the beginning of the 20th century. Its set in the old Hospital San Juan de Dios, founded by the order of King Philip in 1565. The collection, which is very well presented, includes Inca burials, photographs, clothing, and religious and scientific artifacts.

EI Panecillo

South of the Plaza de San Francisco lies Cerro Panecillo, a 180 meter hill topped by a statue of the Virgin of Quito. The views from the top of the Panecillo are breathtaking.

Casa de Benalcázar

Colonial art and fumiture fills this house, Olmedo 962 and Benalcázar, tel. 2/215-838, which was constructed the year of Quito's refounding. Classical music performances are occasionally held here. Irs open Mon.-Fri.; call for specific times.

Basilica de Voto Popular

An alternative for a good view of the city is to head north up Venezuela to the Basilica, Quito's most impressive church from afar. Even though construction began in 1992, it's still not finished. Tours are given from 9 A.M.-5:30 P.M. ($1.50 pp), starting with the interior and moving on to the 115-meter Condor Tower, with views easily comparable to those from EI Panecillo. (Notice the "gargoyles" are actually a menagerie of local animals, including armadillos.) You can buy a pass to the upper floors and, if you're feeling bold, even climb the bell tower. Although it's not part of the tour, if you have the chance, step up to the altar to see the Virgin of Quito atop EI Panecillo framed in a heart-shaped glass window.

La Ronda

One of the best-preserved colonial streets in Old Town, also called Calle Juan de Dros Morales, La Ronda is nicknamed for the evening serenades (rondas) that once floated through its winding path. Old balconies almost touch over the narrow lane, lined with a few shops and budget hotels toward the end. It's reached most easily via Guayaquil, sloping down from the Plaza Santo Domingo.

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