IGLESIA Y CONVENTO EL CARMEN BAJO

The history of this site dates back to 1705 when the Carmelite community migrated to Quito after evacuating its headquarters in Latacunga where it had been established in the 16th century. The transfer to the capital of the then Royal Audience of Quito was due to the destruction of the temple by the violent earthquake of 1698 that devastated the above-mentioned Andean city. Bishop Paredes encouraged the construction of the church on the site it occupies today. The construction continued from 1706 to 1745 and ended up in the Carmen Bajo of today.

Many scholars find Moorish and indigenous lines on the wooden doors of the façade, and the Virgen del Carmen (Virgin of Mount Carmel) is prominently displayed in the main altarpiece where the high altar is located. According to historical documents, the sphinx was sculpted by the mother María Magdalena Dávalos y Larráspuro, considered one of the few female artists of the colonial period in Quito. Recall that the heritage treasure of this site was hidden for many years until in 2018 it was decided to show it so that the public could appreciate it in all its dimension. During the celebration of the 350th anniversary of the foundation of the Order of Discalced Nuns of the Blessed Virgin Mary of Mount Carmel, a contemplative order, in September 2019, the nuns have finally organized a unique tour of the cloister's basement, in order to involve all the people of Quito in its safeguarding.