Things to see in Quito

As its name suggests, Bellavista is a district where a beautiful view opens out on the Guápolo valley below. Not surprisingly, rich and famous people tended to build their homes here but the one worth visiting is the villa of Ecuador's most prominent contemporary painter Oswaldo Guayasamín, which was turned into Museo Guayasamín after his death in 1999. From here Guayasamín cultivated an eclectic range of friends from Fidel Castro to the Rockefellers, while creating an almost unparalleled collection of vibrant modern art. Apart from his paintings, there are Incan artefacts and colonial works from his private collection on display.

Daily 1000-1700.

Yes

Formerly known as La Plaza de la Independencia, the city's main square is dominated by the cathedral, built in 1562. The cathedral's most attractive part, however, is the 17th-century El Sagrario chapel. On the western side, and elevated above the square, stands the Palacio de Gobierno that has seen quite a few coups and political assassinations in its history as the seat of the national government. The Archbishop's Palace, opposite the cathedral, has been converted into a tourist centre with galleries, shops and a pleasant café.

Daily 24 hours.

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Although it was built by the Jesuits in the 17th century, this church's most striking feature is the intricately carved 18th-century facade. It still remains a powerful symbol of Jesuit power in Latin America. A vast amount of gold was used to lavish decoration on its breathtaking interior, which also features numerous beautiful statues and a gleaming golden high altar. There are another 10 impressive side altars to bask in, as well as a sculpture of Quiteña saint Mariana de Jesús to admire.

Daily 0900-1600; Sun 1330-1630.

Yes

Rising above central Quito, this neo-Gothic tower is a rather peculiar sight, with its gargoyles depicting Amazonian animals and the out-of-place 1960s-styled clock. Building began in 1883 and the construction continued through most of the 20th century. Climb to the top of the tower for a splendid view of the city, though ambling amongst its lofty ornate spires is a wondrous sight in itself.

Daily 0900-1800.

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If you have time for just one museum in Quito, head straight to Museo del Banco Central, which displays art from all periods of the country's history: pre-Columbian, colonial and republican. Its most impressive part is Sala de Oro with its rich collection of pre-Hispanic golden objects. The second floor features colonial works including paintings and a few sculptures, while the upper floor has offerings from Ecuador's contemporary repertoire.

Tues-Fri 0900-1700, Sat-Sun 1000-1600.

Yes

Painted brilliant white, the cathedral of Quito is surprisingly minimalistic on the outside and rather overshadowed by the neo-Gothic basilica nearby. On the inside, however, it's suitably grand, with plenty of impressive artworks from the Quito School which include such novel cultural fusions as an image of the Three Kings atop llamas in a depiction of the Nativity. Sculptures from the 18th-century, like The Holy Shroud by Manuel Chili Caspicara, are amongst the artistic highlights. The remains of the great liberator Antonio José de Sucre are also buried here in a tomb carved out of volcanic rock.

Mon-Sat 0930-1600, Sun 1000-1400.

Yes