Admire stunning architecture and discover Quito’s religious history at La Merced Church (Church of Mercy). This stately 18th-centurychurch, located in Quito’s Old Town has an in-house museum and preservedcloisters containing a number of regional relics. Local Quiteños hold thischurch very dear, as they believe it protects them from earthquakes and volcaniceruptions.
Approach the church from La MercedSquare, an adjacent plaza. From here, you’ll get great views of the church’sbright white walls and its distinctive decorated tower. This church’s spireddomes and Moorish-style detailing set it apart from other churches around thecity.
This church replaced the formerBasílica La Merced, which was severely damaged by an earthquake in 1660. Enterthe church’s grand entrance underneath a pillared archway. Carvings around theentrance portray images of importance to the area’s indigenous people,including faces, the sun and the moon.
Upon entry, spend a moment appreciatingthe serene vastness of the church’s main chamber. Underneath an ornate nave,the Virgin of Mercy sits upon a high altar, which was carved in 1751. Explorethe church’s cloisters and spot a number of preserved paintings from such famedcraftsmen as Samaniego, Pinto and Mideros.
Walk onto the church’s wide patio andadmire a sculpted stone fountain depicting Neptune. The following pathways leadto the church’s library, where you’ll see a collection of ancient scrolls andparchments, some bound in gold. Browse the church museum to see a collection ofpaintings and relics and rare jewels that document Quito’s history.
Find La Merced Church in Quito Old Town,close to Independence Square. Get there using the city’s trolleybus network orwalk from nearby attractions. Alternatively, drivers will find paid parking inthe adjacent streets. The church is open daily, but has shorter opening hourson weekends. No admission fee is charged.
