The site where the Old Town first sprung up in Quito is home to an inspiring 16th-century cathedral and rows of majestic colonial structures.
Independence Square (Plaza de la Independencia) is a spacious area with stately colonial buildings and a church that dates back to the 1500s in the centre of the Old Town. Some of the highlights around the square include the Carondelet Palace, the Archbishop’s Palace, the Metropolitan Cathedral of Quito and the Municipal Palace. The plaza is an ideal spot to gather before exploring the sites in the Quito Old Town.
The plaza originated as a meeting point and source of water in the early days of the town’s inception. Bullfights have also been a popular form of entertainment since the 16th century. In present day, you can see a contemporary monument to the Royal Audience of Quito, who first staked a claim for independence at the turn of the 19th century.
Meander through the trees in the green centre of the plaza as you admire the enclosing colonial structures and the monument to independence. Stroll through the charming gardens and appreciate the colourful flowerbeds and water features. You will see students and locals enjoying a break on one of the benches while vendors haggle over prices of souvenirs and refreshments.
Relax and people-watch from a curved stone bench as you contemplate the exception architectural triumph of the 16th-century Cathedral of Quito. As one of the oldest cathedrals in the continent, it has a long and intriguing past. Gaze up at the Gallo de la Catedral, which is a rooster sculpture atop the church. Legend has it the rooster flew down and pecked a drunken man who had offended it.
Stroll through the quaint streets and alleyways around the square before taking a break at a traditional Ecuadorian restaurant or café. Learn about the district’s fascinating history in the Information Centre of the Municipal Palace.
Independence Square can be found in the Old Town district of Quito. It is always open and free to access. There are varying charges to enter the structures around the square. You can get there by trolleybus, rented car or on foot.
