Church of Guápulo
A 17th-century monastery in Quito's historic Guápulo suburb, showcasing stunning colonial art and a masterfully carved pulpit.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Church of Guápulo
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 17th-century monastery in Quito's historic Guápulo suburb, showcasing stunning colonial art and a masterfully carved pulpit.
"Beautiful church in a historic colonial neighborhood, a must to visit in Quito."
Tour for Rooftop Views
Join a 'Quito Eterno' tour for access to the church's roof and unique perspectives . :camerawithflash:
Combine with Other Sights
The church is beautiful but the area is limited. Pair it with other Quito attractions for a complete day . :world_map:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Santuario de Guápulo
Guápulo suburb, Quito
A stunning 17th-century monastery showcasing impressive colonial art and a masterfully carved pulpit.

Museo Franciscano Fray Antonio Rodriguez
Within the monastery
Explore a rich collection of masterpieces from the monastery's historical and artistic heritage.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Colonial Charm
Plan Your Visit Wisely
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Tour for Rooftop Views
Join a 'Quito Eterno' tour for access to the church's roof and unique perspectives.
:camerawithflash:Combine with Other Sights
The church is beautiful but the area is limited. Pair it with other Quito attractions for a complete day.
:world_map:Quito - Off the Beaten Path
Appreciate Colonial Art
Don't miss the impressive collection of colonial art and the intricately carved pulpit inside. :art:
Understand its Significance
Remember this is a significant site for Ecuador's Catholic heritage. :pray:
Neighborhood recommendations in Quito
Tips
from all over the internet
Tour for Rooftop Views
Join a 'Quito Eterno' tour for access to the church's roof and unique perspectives.
:camerawithflash:Combine with Other Sights
The church is beautiful but the area is limited. Pair it with other Quito attractions for a complete day.
:world_map:Appreciate Colonial Art
Don't miss the impressive collection of colonial art and the intricately carved pulpit inside. :art:
Understand its Significance
Remember this is a significant site for Ecuador's Catholic heritage. :pray:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Church of Guápulo for its beautiful colonial architecture and impressive collection of religious art, particularly the intricately carved pulpit. It's seen as a significant site for understanding Ecuador's Catholic heritage. However, some note that the surrounding suburb offers limited attractions beyond the church itself, suggesting it's best combined with other city visits.
"Beautiful Church, it makes you remember that Ecuador is a Catholic country."
Jose De Castro
"In the atmospheric suburb of Guápulo is the very beautiful Santuario de Guápulo, a monastery from the second half of the 17th century with an impressive collection of colonial art and the beautifully carved pulpit by Juan Batista Menacho. The Museo Franciscano Fray Antonio Rodriguez houses some of the masterpieces of the monastery's collection. Well worth a visit!"
Koen
"Beautiful church in a historic colonial neighborhood."
Rafael Ortiz
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Church of Guápulo is located in the historic Guápulo suburb. You can reach it by taxi or ride-sharing services from Quito's city center. Public buses are also an option, though they may require some walking to reach the church itself. Planning your route in advance is recommended.
Guápulo is an atmospheric suburb of Quito, known for its colonial charm. While accessible, it's a bit removed from the main tourist hubs, so factor in travel time when planning your visit.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the church itself is generally free, allowing visitors to admire its architecture and religious significance. However, access to specific areas like the museum or rooftop may require a separate ticket or be part of a guided tour.
Specific opening hours can vary, but churches in Quito typically open in the morning and close in the late afternoon. It's advisable to check locally or with your tour provider for the most up-to-date information before your visit.
Yes, there is typically a small entrance fee for the museum within the monastery to help with its preservation. This fee grants access to the impressive collection of colonial art.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The main draw is the beautiful 17th-century Santuario de Guápulo, featuring an impressive collection of colonial art and a stunning carved pulpit. The adjacent Museo Franciscano Fray Antonio Rodriguez houses many of these masterpieces.
Access to the roof is often available through specific guided tours, such as those offered by 'Quito Eterno.' This provides a unique vantage point and a different perspective of the church and its surroundings.
Absolutely! The church's architecture, colonial art, and the surrounding historic neighborhood offer numerous beautiful photo opportunities. The rooftop access, if available, provides even more unique shots.
The Santuario de Guápulo is a significant 17th-century monastery that reflects Ecuador's rich Catholic history and its colonial past. It's a testament to the artistry and religious devotion of the era.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The immediate vicinity of the church might have limited dining options. However, the broader Guápulo neighborhood and nearby areas in Quito offer a range of restaurants and cafes serving local and international cuisine.
📸 📸 Photography
The intricately carved pulpit inside the church is a must-photograph. The exterior architecture and the views from the rooftop (if accessible via tour) are also excellent.
Generally, photography for personal use is allowed, but flash photography might be restricted to protect the delicate colonial art. Always be respectful of worshippers and any posted signage.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🏛️ History & Art Enthusiasts
📸 Photographers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into Colonial Art
One of the most striking features highlighted by visitors is the beautifully carved pulpit, attributed to Juan Batista Menacho. This intricate woodwork is a testament to the skill of colonial artisans and serves as a focal point for appreciating the church's artistic value. Experiencing the detail and craftsmanship up close is a highlight for many who visit. The sheer artistry involved in such a piece is often a topic of awe and admiration.
For those interested in a more comprehensive understanding, taking a guided tour can significantly enhance the experience. Tours, like those from 'Quito Eterno,' can provide context about the art, the history of the monastery, and even grant access to areas not typically open to the public, such as the rooftop, offering unique photographic opportunities and a broader perspective of the church's place within the historic Guápulo suburb.
Exploring the Guápulo Suburb
However, it's important to note that the suburb, while charming, is not densely packed with tourist attractions. Many visitors find that the church and its museum are the main points of interest, and the area offers 'not much else' in terms of extensive activities. This means that for a full day's exploration, it's often recommended to combine a visit to Guápulo with other nearby attractions in Quito. This strategic planning ensures a more varied and fulfilling itinerary, making the most of your time in the capital.
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