IGLESIA Y CONVENTO DE SAN FRANCISCO

In the main square of San Francisco stands the oldest church in Quito and its monastery. The construction of this church began in 1534, only a few weeks after the foundation of Quito. It was finished 70 years later. The complex was created by the Franciscan Fray Jodoco Rico; a statue in the square pays tribute to him. It is worth noting that this religious complex covers 3 hectares and is one of the largest in South America. The popular rumor says that the devil helped in its construction. Behind the Mannerist style façade of the church, there are sculptures and paintings of the Quenya school and works of Michel de Santiago. The ceilings are in Moorish style, the exuberant baroque altars are decorated with silver and mirrors. The main altar features the original Virgen de Quito de Legarda, a sculpture of a winged Virgin that you will see from most parts of the city as it overlooks the Panecillo. This winged representation is unique on the continent. The convent also houses the first brewery in Ecuador, a work done by the Franciscan friars in an exemplary and optimal way. It is the oldest convent in Ecuador, but also the most important for its historical and artistic content. Its large refectory, which was the dining room of the Franciscan monks and covers 360 square meters, is now used for various cultural and diplomatic events.