San Francisco Catholic Church

San Francisco Catholic Church – Quito, Ecuador Travel Guide

The San Francisco Catholic Church, known locally as *Iglesia y Convento de San Francisco*, is one of the most iconic and historically significant religious sites in Quito. Located on the grand Plaza de San Francisco, this 16th-century church and monastery complex is the largest architectural ensemble of colonial Quito. A masterpiece of the Quito School of Art, it combines Mudejar, Baroque, and Neoclassical styles, making it a spiritual, artistic, and cultural landmark in Ecuador’s capital.

Highlights of San Francisco Catholic Church Quito

• Baroque Altarpiece: The church’s golden main altar is a breathtaking example of Quito’s colonial Baroque style—ornate, intricate, and glowing with gold leaf.
• Quito School of Art Masterpieces: The church and convent are home to works by key artists such as Bernardo de Legarda and Manuel Chili (Caspicara), known for blending European techniques with Indigenous influences.
• Underground Catacombs and Chapels: The church’s foundations include crypts and secondary chapels used by noble families and religious orders dating back to the 1500s.
• Plaza de San Francisco: The vast stone plaza in front of the church is one of Quito’s most photogenic spots, offering dramatic views of the façade and surrounding colonial buildings.
• Museum of San Francisco (Museo Fray Pedro Gocial): Located within the convent, the museum displays religious art, historic books, and sacred objects spanning five centuries.

Best Time to Visit San Francisco Catholic Church Quito

The church is open daily and can be visited year-round. To avoid crowds, visit in the morning or early afternoon on weekdays. The plaza is especially atmospheric at sunset when the light illuminates the white walls and dramatic bell towers.

Getting to San Francisco Catholic Church Quito

• Location: Plaza de San Francisco, Calle Cuenca & Sucre, Historic Center of Quito
• By Foot: Centrally located in Quito’s Old Town, it’s an easy walk from Plaza Grande and other nearby churches and museums.
• By Taxi or Ride Share: Ask for “Iglesia San Francisco” or “Plaza San Francisco.”
• By Public Transport: Accessible via several city bus lines and the Quito trolley system.

Ticket Information for San Francisco Catholic Church Quito

• Entry to the Church: Free
• Museum Admission: Approx. $3 USD per adult
• Guided Tours: Available in Spanish and sometimes English. Tours include the museum, catacombs, cloisters, and bell tower (weather permitting).

Tickets can be purchased at the museum entrance inside the convent building, just off the main plaza.

Tips for Visiting San Francisco Catholic Church Quito

• Respect the Sacred Setting: The church is an active place of worship—maintain a quiet, respectful demeanor, especially during mass.
• Visit the Museum: The Museo Fray Pedro Gocial offers excellent context and access to areas not open to the general public.
• Photography: Allowed in the plaza, but usually prohibited inside the church and museum—check signage or ask guides.
• Wear Comfortable Footwear: The stone floors, stairs, and catacombs require sturdy shoes.

Nearby Attractions

• La Compañía de Jesús: Just a block away, this gold-covered Jesuit church is another crown jewel of Quito’s religious architecture.
• Museo de la Ciudad: Housed in a former hospital, this museum offers insights into Quito’s development through the centuries.
• La Ronda: A nearby historic street lined with artisan shops, street food, and music—perfect for an afternoon stroll.

Final Thoughts on Visiting San Francisco Catholic Church Quito

The San Francisco Catholic Church is more than a religious building—it’s a cultural icon that encapsulates Quito’s colonial history, artistic legacy, and spiritual heart. Whether you’re admiring the stunning architecture, exploring the museum, or taking in the atmosphere of the surrounding plaza, a visit to this landmark offers a powerful and enriching experience in one of Latin America’s most beautiful historic centers.