Temples & religious sites
Church of Saint Frinci
Church of Saint Francis
Located in the historic center of Quito, this Catholic church and monastery is one of the oldest religious sites in Ecuador. Travelers visit this complex to see its architecture and scale, as it is among the largest religious buildings in the historic districts of South America.
Getting There
The church is situated directly in front of the main square in Quito's old town. Since it is located within the city center, it is accessible by foot for those staying nearby or via short taxi rides from other central districts. Travel time from the heart of the old town is negligible.
Visit Duration
Allow approximately one to two hours to walk through the church and explore the monastery grounds.
When to Visit
The site can get crowded during religious holidays and weekends. To avoid the largest crowds, plan your visit for weekday mornings. Because Quito is located near the equator, weather varies by hour, but afternoon rain is common.
Nearby Attractions
Due to its central location, the church can be combined with several other sites within walking distance:
- Palacio Gangotena (0.1km)
- Casa del Alabado Pre-Columbian Art Museum (0.1km)
- Cathedral of Quito (0.2km)
- Church of the Society of Jesus (0.2km)
Updated September 13, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors