It took over 160 years to complete the structure of Iglesia de La Compañía de Jesús, known as the “Church of the Society of Jesus” in English. This here is not just a church, it is a living museum. It is not just about its beauty, it is about its history, it's significance in Quito's culture, and it's the best of example of how religion was imposed in Ecuador back in the Spanish conquer.

Just consider this: Mariana de Jesus, the same Saint, who donated her house to be turned into a convent (where the Carmen Alto museum now resides), is buried in the main altar of this church.

However, Ecuadoreans were really close to losing this beauty, when the church's interior got fire. Since then, experts in repairing this type of monuments have been trying to replicate exactly how it used to look. Nevertheless, new gold is different than old gold and it is easy now to see differentiate what areas where mostly affected. Take a while to study the impressive detail of the central nave and save time to visit the main altar and religious paintings.

Spanish Baroque architects profusely decorated the church's interior with gilded ceilings and exterior with intricate stone carvings, making it recognised today as the most awe-inspiring and beautiful church in Quito and even in Ecuador.

Tours of “Iglesia de la Compañía” in English are offered daily, just ask the entrance!