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Viewpoint · Quito, Pichincha
El Panecillo
Hill to the south of the Historic Center, at about 3,000 meters, with the Virgen de Quito, a winged aluminum statue over 40 meters tall, and views of the center, the north of the city and the surrounding volcanoes.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About El Panecillo
El Panecillo is a rounded hill that separates the Historic Center from southern Quito. The name, "little bread," comes from its shape. The Incas are said to have used the summit as a place of sun worship. Today the Virgen de Quito stands there, an aluminum statue inaugurated in 1975, made by the Spaniard Agustín de la Herrán Matorras from about 7,000 pieces.
The sculpture, over 40 meters including its pedestal, reproduces the winged Virgin by Bernardo de Legarda, an 18th-century work kept in San Francisco. The Virgin has wings, stands on a serpent and looks toward the north of the city. Inside the pedestal there is a small museum and a staircase that leads to a viewpoint.
From the top you can see the Historic Center, with the domes and towers of the churches, Quito's modern north, the slopes of Pichincha and, on clear days, the volcanoes Cotopaxi, Cayambe and Antisana.
Around there are snack stalls and typical food stands. Climbing on foot via the neighborhood stairways is not recommended; take a taxi.
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
From 30 minutes to 1 hour.
Best time
In the morning, when the sky is usually clearer for views of the volcanoes. At night the Virgin is illuminated and can be seen from many points in the city.
How to get there
It's about 2 km south of the Plaza Grande. Go by taxi (agree whether the driver will wait) or on the tourist buses that run the city's circuit.
Tip
Climb to the viewpoint inside the pedestal for the widest view. Combine the visit with the Historic Center: go by taxi and return to La Ronda, just below.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about El Panecillo
How tall is the Virgin of El Panecillo?
Over 40 meters including the pedestal. It is made from about 7,000 aluminum pieces.
Can you walk there from the center?
Not recommended: the neighborhood stairways are long and steep. Take a taxi.
Which volcanoes can be seen from El Panecillo?
On clear days, Cotopaxi, Cayambe, Antisana and Pichincha, which sits behind the city.