Enjoy the uniquely ornate decorations of Church of the Society of Jesus (Iglesia de la Compañía de Jesús). This Jesuitchurch was built using locally sourced volcanic stone, which was detailed usinggold leaf. Browse the church's palette of lavish decorations and decipher the religioussymbolism that was once used by Spanish militaries to draw local indigenouspeople to the faith.
This Baroque building was completedin 1765 after 160 years of construction. Despite the time taken, its exterior,carved from andesite, an Ecuadorian volcanic stone, is known as one of theworld’s most beautiful. Its 18th-century Baroque styling is reminiscent of St.Peter’s Basilica in Rome. Amongst many motifs, spot the repeated image of thesun, which was a very important icon for the indigenous Inca people. Spanishmilitaries believed this assimilation of imagery would encourage more indigenouspeople to join the church.
Enter the church and admire its spaciousinterior, which is illuminated by a central nave. The warm glow lights up thenave’s ornate alters and pillars, which are detailed with gold leaf. Delight inthe church’s sparkling gold alters and gilded columns, decorated with geometricMudéjar (Moorish) patterns. Upon approaching the nave, notice the brightcombination of sunlight, candlelight and golden reflections. Look up and seethe 25.9-metre (85-foot) barrel vault, which is made of pumice and brick. Itswalls are marked by more than a hundred different paintings and sculptures.
Outside of its stunning visualspectacle, Church of the Society of Jesus attracts visitors who come toattend concerts held in-house. Alternatively, visit on November 1 and celebrateDia de los Difuntos (Day of the Dead) as you explore the catacombs.
Find Church of the Society of Jesusin Quito’s Old Town, close to Independence Square. The church is open daily there are limited hours on Sundays. Get there using the public trolleybus or driveand use paid parking in adjacent streets.
