the city of eternal spring «
�hen �ational Geographic Traveller named �uito a must-see place three years ago , every intrepid traveller put this ancient city on their bucket list . Since then , the capital of Ecuador – a country best known for being home to the Gal�pagos �slands � has been declared �South �merica ’ s Leading Destination ’ by the World Travel Awards for three consecutive years and was named one of the world ’ s ‘ New 7 Wonder Cities ,’ and here ’ s why !
Quito is a true vision sitting at an altitude of 9,350 feet above sea level and hugging the equator at latitude � that have blessed it with eternal spring weather . It is the second highest capital city in the world , after La Paz in Bolivia , providing magnificent views that will literally take your breath away !
Founded by the Spanish in 1534 and located on Incan ruins dating back to 980 A . D ., Quito showcases the best of both cultures and boasts the largest and best-preserved historic centre in Latin �merica . �t was also the first city in the world to be named a ‘ World Heritage City ’ by ��ES�� in ���� , offering an exciting culture and treasure-trove of unsung splendours that beckon to be explored .
The heart of Quito beats along the cobblestoned streets of its Spanish colonial historical centre , where the aromas of local delicacies fill the air and women in ponchos sell homegrown fruit and colourful scarves from giant baskets . El Centro ( the historical centre ) is a living museum with scenic views at every turn , which provides a glimpse into the city ’ s storied past . It is home to many inspiring museums , traditional shops , churches and picturesque pla�as guaranteed to captivate visitors . Quito also produces some of the world ’ s best chocolate , so be sure to visit a local chocolateria and enter chocolate heaven !
Highlights include the 16th century Plaza de la Independencia , where gardens and fountains are flanked by whitewashed buildings that house the Archbishop ’ s Palace , the �athedral , �ity �all and the Government Palace . La Compañía de Jesús Church with its green tiled domes is carved out of Andean stone . The magnificence of its baroque fa�ade is only matched by its rich interior , featuring elaborate wood carvings gilded in 23-carat gold . Plaza San Francisco is home to the twin bell towers of �uito ’ s first church , the �onastery of San Francisco . This sweeping cobblestoned plaza with its mountainous backdrop of �olc�n Pichincha is the perfect place to enjoy a drink in an open air café and do some people watching .
La Ronda , meaning “ small alleyway ,” is one of the city ’ s most iconic streets . Here , the old-world crafts and food of Quito are sure to captivate , especially at night . Enjoy panoramic views of the city at El Panchilo Viewpoint , where the imposing sculpture of the winged Virgin of Quito stands guard over the citizens of Quito .
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With government funded programs for the city ’ s arts and culture , Quito ’ s art scene has been exploding . Art lovers can view one of the country ’ s largest collections of Ecuadorian art at the Casa de la Cultura Ecuatoriana which houses two museums . The Casa del Alabado Museum of Pre-Columbian Art and the Centro de Arte Contemporaneo with its modern works are also worth visiting .
The city is home to many exciting neighbourhoods both north and south of the historical centre . La Mariscal is teeming with great restaurants , entertainment and night life . If you prefer a more upscale ambience , then head to the suburb of �umbay� .
�uito offers many exciting excursions for travellers . �orth of Quito , visit La Mitad del Mundo ( the Middle of the World ) and straddle both hemispheres atop the 100-foot Equatorial �onument perched on �atitude � � � ' � � .
Then head to Museum of Intiñan ( the real equator� where guests will learn about the ancient culture of the region , as well as take part in fun science experiments . At the Pululahua Crater , gaze into the world ’ s only populated crater with a 3200-hectare Geobotanical Reserve and experience one of the most magnificent views ever .
Thanks to its location , rich volcanic soil and eternal spring weather , Ecuador grows some of the world ’ s best roses . Travel along Ecuador ’ s Flower Trail and head north to Cayambe – the rose capital of the hemisphere , if not the world – and tour the Hacienda La Compañía de Jesús in Cayambe . This lovely centuries-old rose plantation is complete with a chapel dating back to the 17th-century that once belonged to the Jesuit order . Tour the hacienda ’ s plantation and walk through an endless garden of roses .
At the ancient train station of Chimbacalle – one of the few in the Americas – Tren Ecuador offers travellers exceptional journeys through the Ecuadorian highlands and coast region . Pass by the Cotopaxi volcano and enjoy a folkloric presentation at the Machachi train station to experience the culture , customs and traditions of Ecuador .
Adventure seekers can enjoy a number of sports activities such as hiking , mountain biking and horseback riding through the region ' s glorious landscape covered in towering volcanoes , rivers , waterfalls and national parks .
With its exciting traditions , fascinating historical sites , breathtakingly beautiful landscapes and eternal spring weather , it ’ s easy to see why Quito is taking travellers to new heights ! For more information on excursions , special events , programs and offers , visit Quito . com . ec / en .
\\ LIFE & STYLE fredi spring 2016 • 33