Stroll around the peaceful San FranciscoPlaza on your way to the San Francisco Church and Monastery. This charmingsquare is a great place to relax and enjoy the view and learn about the city’srich heritage. Take a seat at one of many open-air cafés, enjoy views of ElPanecillo hill and watch the city’s vibrant culture come to life around the space.
San Francisco Plaza was built alongsidethe adjacent monastery in the 16th century, when Spanish settlersfounded Quito. For centuries it has been a public meeting spot and marketplace.Indigenous Andeans and colonial Franciscans once met here to trade goods andservices. Notice the plaza’s slight slope, which is due to its construction onthe site of an ancient Incan temple.
Stroll around the square and admirestunning views of the double-towered San Francisco Church and Monastery. Spendlunchtime at one of many al fresco restaurants and try canelazo, a local brewmade from heated spiced rum. Take your time eating this location is a greatspot to just relax and people-watch, especially on busy weekends. On Saturdaysand Sundays, watch local street musicians and dancers performing for thecrowds. Souvenirs, snacks and ice creams can be purchased from the square’smany street vendors.
In the afternoons, the setting sun makesfor a splendid backdrop to the church’s distinctive outline. Be sure to snap aphoto with the Pichincha Volcano behind. For an informative visit, browse theexhibits at the square’s visitor information centre. While exploring, watch outfor pickpockets that frequent the area.
San Francisco Plaza is located inQuito’s Old Town, just in front of San Francisco Church. Get there usingQuito’s trolleybus network or navigate on foot from the Old Town’s nearbyattractions. When returning home through the dark alleys at night, it is advisable totake a cab.
