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Church · Quito, Pichincha
Basílica del Voto Nacional
Neogothic basilica high in the Historic Center, with towers you can climb, stained glass windows and gargoyles shaped like Ecuadorian animals such as Galápagos tortoises, iguanas and armadillos.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Basílica del Voto Nacional
The Basílica del Voto Nacional stands at the northern edge of the Historic Center, on a hill that offers views over much of the city. Construction began in 1892, and the church was consecrated in 1988, with some parts still unfinished. The style is Neo-Gothic, inspired by French cathedrals, with pointed arches, rose windows and colorful stained glass showing flowers and plants of Ecuador.
The most famous detail is the gargoyles. Instead of the monsters of European churches, they represent animals from the country: Galápagos tortoises, iguanas, armadillos, monkeys, pumas, condors and others.
The visit includes climbing the towers and the roof via stairs and walkways, some narrow and exposed, with iron steps in the final section. From the top you can see the Historic Center, El Panecillo and the surrounding volcanoes on clear days. You also cross a wooden walkway above the nave, inside the roof.
The climb is tiring because of the altitude and the steep steps; people with vertigo may prefer to stay on the lower levels.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About 1 to 1.5 hours including the tower climb.
Best time
In the morning, when the sky is clearer for views of the volcanoes. Confirm the opening times before you go.
How to get there
At the corner of Venezuela and Carchi, about 800 meters from the Plaza Grande, heading up Venezuela. By taxi it's a few minutes.
Tip
Look for the tortoise and iguana gargoyles on the side façade before entering. Climb the towers in the morning, before the afternoon clouds roll in.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Basílica del Voto Nacional
Can you go up the Basilica towers?
Yes, via stairs and walkways, with some steep sections and iron staircases at the end. The view includes the city center and the volcanoes.
What do the gargoyles represent?
Animals of Ecuador, such as Galápagos tortoises, iguanas, armadillos, monkeys and condors.
Is the Basilica old?
It dates from the late 19th and 20th centuries: construction began in 1892 and the church was consecrated in 1988.