Church of the Society of Jesus La Compañía
A breathtaking baroque masterpiece, famously known as 'The Golden Church' for its dazzling, gold-leaf-covered interior.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Lively street vendors outside
Church of the Society of Jesus La Compañía
Best Time
Lively street vendors outside
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A breathtaking baroque masterpiece, famously known as 'The Golden Church' for its dazzling, gold-leaf-covered interior.
"Truly the most beautiful sacred place I have ever seen in my life.
"💰 Full Experience is Worth It
Pay for the full tour to access the roof and crypts – it's affordable and adds so much depth! :ticket:
🚶♀️ Explore Outside Too
Weekend street vendors offer unique handicrafts, adding to the vibrant atmosphere. :shopping_bags:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Gilded Interior
An overwhelming spectacle of gold leaf covering every surface, creating a breathtaking, almost blinding, baroque masterpiece.
Baroque Architecture
Marvel at the intricate carvings and ornate details that define this stunning example of baroque style.
Roof and Crypt Access
Opt for the full experience to explore hidden crypts and gain panoramic views from the rooftop.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Prepare for Gold Overload
Enhance Your Visit with a Guide
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Must see Catholic sites in Quito Ecuador?
💰 Full Experience is Worth It
Pay for the full tour to access the roof and crypts – it's affordable and adds so much depth!
:ticket:🚶♀️ Explore Outside Too
Weekend street vendors offer unique handicrafts, adding to the vibrant atmosphere.
:shopping_bags:Iglesia de la Compañía de Jesús. Cusco, Peru. [OS][OC][5184x3456]
🤫 Respect Quiet Reflection
If others are praying or reflecting, be mindful and keep your voice down.
:pray:🤩 Prepare for the Gold!
The sheer amount of gold is stunning; it's truly 'The Golden Church.'
:gem:Tips
from all over the internet
💰 Full Experience is Worth It
Pay for the full tour to access the roof and crypts – it's affordable and adds so much depth!
:ticket:🚶♀️ Explore Outside Too
Weekend street vendors offer unique handicrafts, adding to the vibrant atmosphere.
:shopping_bags:🤫 Respect Quiet Reflection
If others are praying or reflecting, be mindful and keep your voice down.
:pray:🤩 Prepare for the Gold!
The sheer amount of gold is stunning; it's truly 'The Golden Church.'
:gem:What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently laud the Church of La Compañía de Jesús as one of the most beautiful sacred places they've ever encountered, often calling it 'The Golden Church' due to its astonishing gold leaf interior. The intricate baroque architecture and the profound sense of peace it evokes are frequently highlighted. Some suggest opting for the full experience, including the crypts and rooftop, for a more complete understanding.
"Absolutely a must visit if you're in Quito. It really is one of the most beautiful interior churches you'll ever visit. And the amount of gold leaf on every surface is blinding - it's like Midas himself lived here for 100 years.
In addition, during the weekend there are street vendors outside selling variety of handicrafts. It's very lively."
Lisa Chan
"Stepping into church of society of Jesus was a deeply moving experience—truly the most beautiful sacred place I have ever seen in my life. The moment I walked through its doors, I felt a powerful sense of peace and awe. Its age and history seem to whisper stories from centuries past, echoing the soul of Quito’s rich culture and spiritual heritage.
The architecture is nothing short of divine—ornate, timeless, and filled with meaning in every detail. Nestled in the heart of Quito’s historic district, the church feels like a sacred jewel surrounded by the rhythms of everyday life.
It’s not just a place to visit—it’s a place to feel, reflect, and connect. A must-see for anyone seeking beauty, history, or a touch of the divine."
Captain Oh Captain
"It's a beautiful place to both visit and take a little time out to reflect with God. Respect the latter, especially if other visitors are doing so. The amount of gold covering the walls is staggering. I won't compare this place to European churches other than it's equally as beautiful but for other reasons."
Stuart Thomason
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The church is located in the heart of Quito's historic district, a UNESCO World Heritage site. It's easily accessible by taxi or ride-sharing services. If you're staying nearby, walking is also a great option to soak in the city's atmosphere.
Parking in Quito's historic center can be challenging. It's recommended to use taxis or ride-sharing apps, or to park in a secure public lot a short walk away.
Yes, several local bus routes pass through the historic center, making public transport a viable and budget-friendly option. Check local transit maps for the most convenient routes.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Opening hours can vary, but generally, the church is open daily from morning to late afternoon. It's best to check the official website or inquire locally for the most up-to-date times.
There is an admission fee to enter the church, and an additional fee for the 'full experience' which includes access to the roof and crypts. Prices are considered very affordable by visitors.
While advance booking isn't always necessary, especially during off-peak times, purchasing tickets upon arrival is standard. For special events or peak tourist seasons, checking for online options might be wise.
As it is a place of worship, modest dress is recommended. Shoulders and knees should be covered.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally permitted inside the church, but it's always good practice to be discreet and respectful, especially during services or when others are praying. Some areas might have restrictions.
Using flash photography is typically discouraged or prohibited inside churches to protect the delicate artwork and avoid disturbing visitors. Always check for signage.
The entire interior is a photographer's dream! Focus on the intricate gold leaf details, the ornate altars, and the stunning ceiling. The 'full experience' offers unique perspectives from the roof.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
Many visitors spend at least half a day exploring the church and its surroundings, especially if opting for the full experience with the guide.
Yes, local guides are available inside the church and are highly recommended to understand the history and symbolism. Hiring one significantly enhances the visit.
The 'full experience' typically includes access to the church's interior, its crypts, and the rooftop, offering a comprehensive look at the building's history and architecture.
The main nave is generally accessible, but access to the crypts and rooftop may involve stairs. It's advisable to inquire about specific accessibility options beforehand.
🍽️ 🛍️ Shopping & Dining Nearby
Absolutely! The historic center is brimming with cafes, restaurants, and street food vendors offering a variety of Ecuadorian cuisine.
Yes, especially on weekends, street vendors outside the church sell handicrafts. The surrounding streets also have numerous souvenir shops.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
🏛️ History & Architecture Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Dazzling 'Golden Church'
Beyond the gold, the church boasts incredibly detailed woodwork, stucco, and paintings, each element contributing to a cohesive and magnificent baroque aesthetic. The main altar and the pulpit are particularly noteworthy for their elaborate designs. Stepping inside feels like entering a treasure chest, a sacred space where art, faith, and history converge in a spectacular display. It's not just a church; it's a testament to the artistic and spiritual fervor of its time, making it a must-see for anyone visiting Quito.
Exploring Beyond the Nave
The rooftop provides a unique vantage point over Quito's historic center. From this elevated perspective, you can appreciate the urban planning of the UNESCO World Heritage site and capture stunning panoramic photographs of the surrounding colonial architecture. This extended exploration allows visitors to connect with the church on multiple levels, from its spiritual heart to its historical foundations and its place within the vibrant city. It transforms a simple visit into a comprehensive historical and architectural journey.
The Role of Local Guides
Many visitors highly recommend hiring a guide to fully grasp the intricate details and the spiritual narrative embedded within the church's design. They can point out specific carvings, explain the iconography of the paintings, and provide insights into the lives of the Jesuits who built and worshipped here. This personalized interpretation elevates the experience from mere sightseeing to a profound cultural and historical immersion.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit