La Compañía de Jesús Church

This Quito church, built by the Jesuits between 1635 and 1705, is located a block away from the Plaza de la Independencia or Plaza Grande, the main square in the colonial downtown, on the Street of the Seven Crosses, of which La Compañía's, as it is popularly known, is one.

Its exterior is already impressive, boasting intricate hand-carvings on grey stone and twisted columns, but what really astounds visitors is its shiny gold-leaf inside, which, when visiting for the first time, stops you short upon entering. It is a must visit in Quito.

Spanish and English-speaking guides are always available to tell visitors all about the history and the amazing art of the church. A full guided tour, which is included with the ticket price, lasts 45 minutes but you can get a short version of it by telling the guide in advance. The guides are very knowledgeable and will tell you anecdotes and details about  the history and the multitude of art expressions, carvings, paintings and sculptures, that you can admire all over the church. You will see interesting mixes of baroque, moorish and Amerindian styles, and unique characters like dark-skinned or bare-breasted female angels.

The church also has a hall for temporary exhibitions which are held every now and then, usually about religious subjects.

The entrance fees go from 50 cents to 3 dollars. Children under 11 enter for free.