UNESCO World Heritage sites in Quito

Quito’s historic center was the first city inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list in 1978, recognized for its exceptionally well-preserved colonial architecture. This selection features the massive Neo-Gothic spires of the Basilica of the National Vow, the Baroque interiors of the San Francisco complex, and the seat of Ecuadorian government at Carondelet Palace. The list encompasses grand 16th-century churches, the city's oldest cathedral, and former colonial mansions that now house museums dedicated to the city's art and history.

UNESCO World Heritage Sites — Map

A

Basilica of the National Vow

The Basilica of the National Vow is a Roman Catholic church located in the historic center of Quito, Ecuador.

Francesco Bailo / Public domain

B

Church and Convent of St. Francis

The Basilica and Convent of San Francisco, commonly known as el San Francisco, is a Catholic basilica that stands in the middle of the…

C

Iglesia de Santo Domingo

A 16th-century Dominican church known for its Mudéjar-style wood carvings and the ornate Chapel of the Virgin of the Rosary. The interior houses a significant collection of statues and paintings produced by the Quito School of art.

H3kt0r / CC BY-SA 3.0

D

Palacio Arzobispal

The former residence of the Archbishop of Quito, this 16th-century palace on Independence Square features elegant colonial courtyards. Today, it has been repurposed into a commercial space containing traditional restaurants and local shops.

H3kt0r / CC BY-SA 3.0

E

Palacio de Carondelet

Carondelet Palace is the seat of government of the Republic of Ecuador, located in Quito.

David Adam Kess / CC BY-SA 4.0

F

City Museum

The City Museum is a museum in the colonial center of Quito, Ecuador. It is located on Garcia Moreno Street, between Morales and Rocafuerte.

Diego Delso / CC BY-SA 4.0

G

El Sagrario Church

La Iglesia de El Sagrario is a Renaissance Catholic church in the city of Quito, capital of Ecuador.

H

Itchimba Cultural Centre

The huge building hosts all sorts of art exhibits, events and more - just check the programme.

I

Catedral Metropolitana Quito

One of the oldest cathedrals in South America, this site features a mix of Gothic-Mudéjar, Baroque, and Neoclassical architecture. It houses the remains of independence hero Antonio José de Sucre and valuable colonial-era religious art.

Yosemite~commonswiki / CC BY-SA 3.0

J

Sucre House

Sucre House is a museum in the historic center of Quito, Ecuador. It was established in 1977 by the Ministry of Defence.

K

Quito Metropolitan Culture Centre

One of the oldest buildings in the city. Hosts art exhibits, music events and more.

Other Lists

Quito Essentials Cultural Highlights of Quito Historic Churches of Quito Quito Parks & Viewpoints