San Francisco de Quito Ecuador: An Overview of its History, Amazing Facts, and Things to Do
San Francisco de Quito Ecuador is a city located in the northern part of the country of Ecuador. It is also known as Quito, the capital of Ecuador, and is the second largest city in the country. Quito is a city of great cultural significance, with a rich history that dates back to the 16th century. It is home to a variety of cultural attractions, including the historic center of Quito, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The city of Quito was founded in 1534 by Spanish conquistador Sebastián de Benalcázar. It is believed to be the oldest continuously inhabited city in the Americas. Quito quickly became an important center of trade and commerce, and was the first capital of the Royal Audience of Quito, a Spanish colonial administrative district. During the colonial period, Quito was known as the “City of Kings” due to its many religious and cultural monuments.
Today, Quito is a vibrant city, with a population of over 2.5 million people. It is a popular tourist destination, and is known for its stunning views of the surrounding Andes Mountains. Quito is also home to a number of museums, galleries, and historic sites, making it a great place to explore the history and culture of Ecuador.
Here are some amazing facts about San Francisco de Quito Ecuador:
• Quito is the second highest capital city in the world, with an elevation of 2,850 meters (9,350 feet).
• The historic center of Quito is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and is home to over 200 churches, monasteries, and convents.
• Quito is home to the oldest astronomical observatory in the Americas, the Carondelet Observatory.
• Quito is the birthplace of the famous Ecuadorian author and poet, Juan Montalvo.
• Quito is also known for its vibrant nightlife, with a variety of bars, clubs, and restaurants.
• Quito is home to the world’s first aerial tramway, the Teleférico de Quito, which was built in 1975.
Things to Do in San Francisco de Quito Ecuador
1. Visit the Historic Center of Quito: The Historic Center of Quito is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and is home to a variety of historical monuments and buildings. Take a guided tour of the area to learn more about its history and culture.
2. Explore the Carondelet Observatory: The Carondelet Observatory is the oldest astronomical observatory in the Americas, and is a great place to learn about the stars and planets.
3. Take a Ride on the Teleférico de Quito: The Teleférico de Quito is the world’s first aerial tramway, and is a great way to get a bird’s eye view of the city.
4. Visit the Museums and Galleries: Quito is home to a number of museums and galleries, including the Museum of Contemporary Art, the Museum of Ecuadorian Culture, and the Museo de Arte Colonial.
5. Take a Tour of the Churches and Monasteries: Quito is home to over 200 churches, monasteries, and convents, making it a great place to explore the city’s religious history.
6. Explore the Markets: Quito is home to a number of markets, including the Mercado Central, the Mercado de San Francisco, and the Mercado de la Mariscal.
7. Go Shopping: Quito is home to a variety of shopping centers, including the El Jardin Shopping Center and the Centro Comercial El Bosque.
8. Enjoy the Nightlife: Quito is known for its vibrant nightlife, with a variety of bars, clubs, and restaurants.
9. Visit the Parque Metropolitano: The Parque Metropolitano is a large park located in the north of Quito, and is a great place to relax and enjoy the views of the city.
10. Explore the Surrounding Areas: Quito is surrounded by a number of interesting places to explore, including the Cotopaxi National Park, the Otavalo Market, and the Quilotoa Loop.