10 Things to Do in Plaza de la Independencia, Quito, Ecuador
Quito, the capital of Ecuador, is a vibrant and bustling city that offers a wealth of attractions and activities. One of the most popular places to visit in Quito is the Plaza de la Independencia, also known as the Plaza Grande. Located in the heart of the city, the Plaza de la Independencia is a grand public square surrounded by some of Quito’s most important historical buildings, including the Presidential Palace, the Archbishop's Palace, and the Municipal Palace. Here are 10 great things to do in the Plaza de la Independencia, Quito, Ecuador.
1. Visit the Presidential Palace
The Presidential Palace, also known as the Palacio de Carondelet, is the official residence of the President of Ecuador and one of the most iconic buildings in the Plaza de la Independencia. The palace was built in the 18th century and is a great example of neoclassical architecture. Visitors can get a glimpse of the palace’s interior during the weekly changing of the guard ceremony, which takes place every Saturday at noon.
2. Explore the Archbishop’s Palace
The Archbishop’s Palace, also known as the Palacio Arzobispal, is located on the south side of the Plaza de la Independencia. The palace was built in the 16th century and is a great example of colonial architecture. Visitors can explore the palace’s interior, which includes a number of interesting artifacts and works of art.
3. Admire the Monument to Independence
The Monument to Independence is located in the center of the Plaza de la Independencia and is one of the most iconic monuments in Quito. The monument was built in the 19th century and features a large statue of General Antonio José de Sucre, who was one of the leaders of Ecuador’s independence movement.
4. Visit the Municipal Palace
The Municipal Palace is located on the east side of the Plaza de la Independencia and is the official seat of the municipal government of Quito. The building was constructed in the 19th century and is a great example of neoclassical architecture. Visitors can explore the palace’s interior, which includes a number of interesting artifacts and works of art.
5. Explore the Church of La Compañía
The Church of La Compañía is located on the north side of the Plaza de la Independencia and is one of the most important churches in Quito. The church was built in the 17th century and is a great example of baroque architecture. Visitors can admire the church’s stunning interior, which includes a number of beautiful works of art.
6. Visit the Museum of the City
The Museum of the City is located on the west side of the Plaza de la Independencia and is one of the most popular museums in Quito. The museum was established in the 19th century and is a great place to learn about the history and culture of the city. Visitors can explore the museum’s many exhibits, which include a number of interesting artifacts and works of art.
7. Admire the Monument to Simón Bolívar
The Monument to Simón Bolívar is located in the center of the Plaza de la Independencia and is one of the most iconic monuments in Quito. The monument was built in the 19th century and features a large statue of the South American revolutionary leader.
8. Explore the Plaza de la Independencia
The Plaza de la Independencia is a great place to explore and admire the city of Quito. The plaza is surrounded by some of the city’s most important historical buildings, including the Presidential Palace, the Archbishop's Palace, and the Municipal Palace. Visitors can also admire the Monument to Independence and the Monument to Simón Bolívar, which are both located in the center of the plaza.
9. Visit the Plaza Foch
The Plaza Foch is located just a few blocks away from the Plaza de la Independencia and is one of the most popular nightlife spots in Quito. The plaza is home to a number of bars, restaurants, and nightclubs, making it a great place to spend an evening out on the town.
10. Enjoy the Local Cuisine
Quito is home to a number of great restaurants, and the Plaza de la Independencia is a great place to sample the local cuisine. Visitors can enjoy a variety of traditional Ecuadorian dishes, such as ceviche, locro de papa, and llapingachos. There are also a number of international restaurants located in the plaza, offering a range of different cuisines.