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Temples & religious sites

Basilica of La Merced

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Basilica of La Merced

Basilica of La Merced

The Basilica of La Merced is a Catholic church located in the historic center of Quito. It serves as the first establishment founded in Ecuador by the Mercedarian order. Travelers visit this site to view its religious architecture and historical significance while exploring the city's colonial district.

Getting There

The church is situated directly within the historic old town. If you are staying in the city center, it is accessible via a short walk. Depending on your starting point within the central district, it typically takes less than 10 minutes to reach on foot.

Visit Duration

Allow approximately 30 to 60 minutes to walk through the interior and observe the architectural details of the building.

When to Visit

Visiting during the morning hours allows for a quieter experience before the midday rush. Like many central religious sites in Quito, it can become crowded during weekend mass or local religious holidays. There are no specific seasonal restrictions, though rainy afternoons are common in the city.

Nearby Attractions

Because of its central location, this site is easily combined with other nearby landmarks. Within a 0.2km radius, you can visit:

  • Plaza de la Independencia (0.2km)
  • Cathedral of Quito (0.2km)
  • Palacio Arzobispal (0.2km)
  • Alberto Mena Caamaño Museum (0.2km)

Updated September 13, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors

Tickets & tours

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Stays near Basilica of La Merced

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Basilica of La Merced Nearby stays

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Itineraries including this place

2 nights, 3 days

Quito 3-Day Itinerary (2 Nights)

A 3-day route through Quito grouped by daily travel distance for optimal sightseeing.

3 nights, 4 days

Quito 4-Day Itinerary (3 Nights)

A 4-day route through Quito grouped by daily travel distance for optimal sightseeing.

Good to visit alongside

Alberto Mena Caamaño Museum

Museums & galleries

Alberto Mena Caamaño Museum

This museum sits in Quito's historic center, close to the Presidential Palace. Travel guidebooks often rate it among the old town's top attractions, thanks to its wide range of exhibits.

0.2 km away
Palacio Arzobispal

Castles & palaces

Palacio Arzobispal

The former archbishop's residence on Quito's main square, now home to a gallery of shops and restaurants. A pleasant place to browse, grab a bite, and rest.

0.2 km away
Plaza de la Independencia

Parks & gardens

Plaza de la Independencia

This central square of Quito's old town holds a monument honoring the heroes of the 1809 independence movement. Surrounded by landmarks like the Presidential Palace and the cathedral, it's a good place to take in the city's history at once.

0.2 km away
Cathedral of Quito

Temples & religious sites

Cathedral of Quito

The cathedral stands southwest of Independence Square in Quito. It has served as a parish church since 1545 and is now the most prestigious Catholic cathedral in Ecuador.

0.2 km away
Monument to Independence

Heritage & monuments

Monument to Independence

A tall monument in the central square of Quito's old town, commemorating the independence movement of 1809. With the presidential palace as its backdrop, it forms one of the city's iconic views.

0.3 km away
Church of the Society of Jesus

Temples & religious sites

Church of the Society of Jesus

A Catholic church in Quito's historic center, notable for its elaborate facade carved from solid volcanic stone. Its striking appearance has earned it the nickname "the Solomon's Temple of South America."

0.3 km away