The capital city of Ecuador, Quito, stands about 9000 feet above the sea level, making it one of the higher capital city in the world! Though you may want to just stay over for a day or two but there's a lot more in the city that you must explore.
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Witness History at Plaza de la Independencia
Even being a seat of the Government and official residence of the President, the palace is open to the public to roam around freely.
Do visit the President's Room (Yellow Room) to see the paintings of the former Ecuadorian leaders. You mustn't miss the Changing of Guard ceremony on Monday 11 AM where you can witness marching soldiers, horses and beating drums. You might be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of the President in the balcony!
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Unveil History at Ciudad Mitad del Mundo
The 30-meter high stone monument with a brass globe on the top, houses a viewing platform and a museum.
You get to see the local attire, photographs as well as dioramas of the people of Ecuador. Also, pay a visit to the interactive scientific exhibits at the lower floors to understand the science behind the various myths about Ecuador.
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Admire the Iglesia de San Francisco
The first church ever built in Quito, the San Franciso Church, took more than 100 years to finish!
Beautiful Moorish designs on the ceiling, wider stairways, indigenous symbols across the church alongside sculptures of Jesus and The Virgin of Quito - the Church is a good place to spend an hour!
Appreciate Art at Metropolitan Cathedral
A religious symbol for the people of Quito, the Cathedral is built using a mix of architectural styles.
There's an array of colonial art inside the building with famous pieces such as 'Ascension of the Virgin' by Manuel Samaniego. With a few tombs (of famous people) inside the place, it is an interesting place to visit, especially during the night tours!
Play at Parque La Carolina
A 165.5-acre park that is located in the Quito central business district, the Parque La Carolina, is the place where local Quiteños gather to play basketball, soccer, and ecua-volley (a European variation of volleyball).
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There's a small park inside the park where paddleboats can be rented. You can also skate and cycle at the skatepark!
Admire Artwork at Carondelet Palace
Another architectural beauty, the Carondelet Palace also displays a series of fine works of art alongside a number of rooms for special meetings.
The home to Ecuador's President, the palace is open to visitors to admire the beauty of the palace. The mural by artist Oswaldo Guayasamin is a famous piece that attracts visitors!
Pray at Basilica del Voto Nacional
The largest neo-Gothic church in America, Basilica del Voto Nacional, has about 24 small chapels, each representing a province in Ecuador.
A crypt and a pantheon are also connected to the church. On the outer side of the church, there is a series of gargoyles that represent animals native to Ecuador.