City: Ecuador
Top Things to do in Ecuador
The 10 Best Churches & Cathedrals in Ecuador, Ecuador
Coordinates: 2°00′S 77°30′W / 2.000°S 77.500°W / -2.000; -77.500
Restaurants in Ecuador
1. Iglesia Nuestra Senora de Chilla
2. Iglesia y Convento de San Francisco
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,677 reviews
Established in 1536 by Franciscan monks, this magnificent architectural masterpiece features a museum in its convent with art from the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries.
Reviewed By georgesB4777WE - Miami Beach, United States
This is the oldest church in Quito (from the 16th century) and one of the most beautiful. Though one can argue that the Jesuit one is more “uber” than this church, it, nevertheless is “uber-magnificent” also. It is relatively plain from the outside, but its baroque inside explodes and takes your breath away. The main altar and the side altars are beautifully gilded and carved. Its decorated ceilings remind me of a Moorish design, probably coming from Spain. Every inch of the interior is covered with gilt or art. A site that cannot be missed. The admission to the church is free and photos during services are prohibited. The convent and museum next door however, charges a $4 admission fee and has a separate entrance.
3. La Catedral de la Inmaculada Concepcion de Cuenca
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,086 reviews
This large cathedral (circa 1885) features a series of sky-blue cupolas; the interior contains a magnificent altar and a famous crowned image of the Virgin Mary.
Reviewed By 68olivers
Our hotel sits on a hilltop about a mile and a half from the city center. We had a grand view of the city center of which the blue domes of this church stood out. The church is even more striking up close. Beautiful gothic arches, stained glass windows, very ornate altars that speak of days gone will greet you inside the church. For $2, you can access the stairs to the roof. The stairs are winding, narrow and at times steep. If you are fit enough, I recommend it strongly. The views are magnificent from atop the church. There are 52 churches in Cuenca- 1 for each week as our guide told us. The Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception is one of three churches that I would recommend as a "Do Not Miss" when visiting Cuenca.
4. Catedral de Emperatriz de Santa Elena
5. Catedral de Santo Domingo de los Colorados
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 3 reviews
6. Iglesia San Jacinto del Morro
7. Basilica de Nuestra Senora de la Merced
8. Mirador de Turi
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,174 reviews
Reviewed By susansJ9674OJ
The view of Cuenca is spectacular! I would strongly suggest that you take the city bus tour, during the day, which stops at the top of Tui. Then go back by taxi at nighttime! Both views are great and well worth the time.
9. Iglesia de Balbanera
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 151 reviews
Reviewed By vjv2007 - Tampa, United States
Our travel guide insisted that we leave our B&B in Riobamba at 5:30 AM to see this beautiful church. He was right!
10. La Catedral de Ambato
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 96 reviews
Reviewed By vanessavK8037BS - Cotacachi, Ecuador
I have been a tourist in the city of Ambato for 4 days. The city is known as a "City of Flowers, Fruits and Bread", the people who live in the city are very kind, friendly and respectful, the in Ambato I have felt very happy because I have enjoyed all the natural places they are very beautiful and fun as a its parks and the Cathedral, it is mild climate is very relaxing. In the city of Ambato you can find different products and typical foods very delicious. It also has hotels with neat and clean rooms.
